Media Release

Mangaluru, Feb 10: St Vincent De Paul Society a Catholic lay service organization which started in Paris France in the year 1833 by Blessed Fredrick Ozanam which helps the needy irrespective of caste creed colour or religion started in Mangalore in 1926 at Bendore Milagres Rosario and Bejai commenced its centenary year at Bejai church hall.

Students of Bejai St Xavier School performed the prayer dance. Gerard Rego the Bejai unit president extended warm welcome to the dignitaries present.

The chief guest Fr Maxim Noronha released the centenary logo and advised the members to work hard in the service of the needy.

Fr Francis D’Souza the spiritual advisor of Mangalore Central Council released the centenary theme and congratulated the members on their centenary and wished their mission all the success. Fr J B Saldhana the parish priest of Bejai inaugurated the centenary project Asro (Shelter) by handing over a cheque to Western India coordinator Walter Martis who was present on behalf of National Council.

Gilbert Pinto, a senior member was felicitated for his contribution to the movement of service was felicitated he narrated his 44 years of experience in the society. Preetha Lobo the vice president read the citation. Joe Coelho the the present central council president delivered the key note address and gave details of centenary projects ie Shikop for education aid for 405 students of adopted families and Asro, ie providing shelter for 100 families.

Philomina Menezes, the centenary celebration commitee convenor proposed the vote of thanks. Augustin Rodrigues of Bejai unit compered the programme. Hilda Rodrigues, Mary D’Souza, Ida Pereira, Felix D’Silva, Rexon Miranda, and Albert Sequiera were present on the dais. All the presidents and office bearers of 115 conferences were also present.