Media Release
Udupi, Apr 10: In a celebration of wisdom and service, the Kind Heart Trust (R) held its popularizing programme on Tuesday, April 8 at Maithri Hall near St Anthony's Church in Sasthan. The event, marked by both solemnity and joy, brought together community leaders and honoured senior citizens who have contributed decades of service to the region.
Fr Sunil D'Silva, parish priest of St Anthony's Church, presided as chief guest over the ceremony that saw nine super elders, all above 80 years of age, receive special recognition for their lifelong contributions to the community.
The afternoon began with master of ceremony Joel D'Almeida welcoming dignitaries to the stage, creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration. The formal proceedings commenced with Rubina Rodriguez extending a warm welcome to the gathering and honoured guests.
Managing trustee Henry Lewis delivered a comprehensive presentation about the Trust's mission and ongoing community initiatives. His address highlighted the organization's dedication to honouring elders and fostering intergenerational respect within the community.
The event featured prominent community figures including Kishore Gonsalves, Joseph Menezes, Derek D'Souza, Alwyn Andrade, Denis Rodrigues Lavina Suares, and Charles D'Almeida, all of whom were seated on the dais as distinguished participants in the ceremony.
The highlight of the programme was the special honouring ceremony for the "super elders" of the community. In a touching tribute, Jerome D'Souza, Sr Brandina, Sr Hilda, Helen Lewis, Teresa Lewis, Andrew Tellis, Victor Saldanha, Antoinette Fernandes, and Monika Dais were recognized for their decades of wisdom and service. Stephen Lewis announced each honouree’s name as they came forward to receive recognition, with some requiring gentle assistance to the stage.
In his keynote address, Fr Sunil D'Silva delivered what attendees described as an enlightening speech, emphasizing the importance of honouring elders and preserving their wisdom for future generations. He offered his blessings to the Trust's initiatives and encouraged its continued service to the community's most venerable members.
"These individuals represent our living history," Fr Sunil Dsilva remarked. "In honouring them, we honour the very foundation upon which our community stands."
The ceremony concluded with Charles D'Almeida offering heartfelt thanks to all participants, volunteers, and honoured guests who made the event possible.
The Kind Heart Trust (R), known for its community outreach programmes, continues to strengthen social bonds in the Sasthan area through initiatives that bridge generational divides and celebrate the contributions of its eldest citizens.