Pics: Wilfy D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network—Vittal (RD)

Vittal, Jan 21: “Don’t prejudice your service to a religion, caste, and creed.  The prayers offered for the welfare of mankind will be much more fruitful,” said Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza of Mangalore diocese.

He was speaking after laying the foundation stone for building a new Our Lady of Fatima Church at Mucchirapadav in the limits of Peruvai, near here, on Thursday January 19.

A chapel has existed here since 31 years and a priest from Vittal parish used to celebrate Sunday Mass.  A presbytery was built three-years ago and Fr Andrew D'Costa was caring for the spiritual needs of 126 families.

Bishop D’Souza offered a Holy Mass at the chapel on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Franklyn Monteiro, vice-president, BJP Minority Youth Morcha, said that Christians living in rural villages across the state are facing hardships and a survey will be held to address their grievances to better utilize the state funds allocated.

Monteiro urged the community to avail various facilities meant for self-help-groups promoted by Christian organizations, farmers, and senior citizens.

Puttur parish priest Fr Gerald D’Souza, Vittal parish priest Fr Peter Serrao, IFKCA state deputy convener Denis D’Silva, Karnataka state Christian Development Council member John D’Souza, Alike gram panchayat president Kana Eshwar Bhat, Peruvai gram panchayat vice-president Ralph D’Souza, and Robert D’Souza Delantabettu were present on the dais.

Fr Andrew D’Costa welcomed the gathering.  The parish council vice-president Victor D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks.

Feast of Infant Jesus was celebrated at the parish on Thursday morning, during the Holy Mass.