Media Release

Bantwal, Mav 26: As part of the 250-year jubilee celebrations of Deva Matha Church, Mogarnad, a special programme aimed at uniting and honoring the men of the parish—including youth and labourers—was held on Sunday, May 25. The event, rooted in the jubilee’s vision of strengthening community ties and highlighting the role of men in family and society, began with a solemn Holy Mass.

The Eucharistic celebration was led by parish priest Fr Anil Canute D’Mello, along with Fr Joseph Kiran Monteiro and Fr Rohan D’Souza. In his homily, Fr D’Mello emphasized the vital role of men in family life, underlining their responsibilities and influence as fathers, husbands, and contributors to the spiritual and social fabric of the community. The service also included a special prayer and blessing for all the men in attendance. 

Following the Mass, the men gathered at the Deva Matha Saba Bhavana for a fellowship programme. After refreshments, members of the women’s organizations warmly welcomed the gathering with a floral tribute—a symbolic gesture of love and respect. Fr D’Mello formally inaugurated the programme with a welcome address.

The event featured an informative session by Bantwal labor inspector Laveena D’Souza, who elaborated on various government schemes and entitlements available to laborers, including irrigation support and labor cards. Her presentation aimed to raise awareness among local workers about the benefits they can avail through government initiatives.

In the cultural segment, the parish zones—Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Hoson, Gloria, and Rejoice—presented vibrant performances as part of a traditional Roce competition, showcasing the community’s rich heritage. The competition judges, Arun Roy and Laveena D’Souza, were later felicitated with mementos as a token of gratitude.

Outstanding contributors and achievers within the parish were also recognized and honoured with commemorative mementos. Austin D’Cunha shared his heartfelt reflections on the significance of the 250-year milestone.

The event concluded with a community lunch, reinforcing the spirit of unity and celebration. Present at the occasion were parish priest Fr Anil Canute D’Mello, headmaster of Deva Matha English Medium School Fr Naveen Prakash Pinto, Deva Matha Convent superior Sister Anni, Church council vice president Santhosh D’Souza, church secretary Wilfred Lobo, unit representative Emiliana, and jubilee committee convener Naveen Rajesh. The entire event was effectively compered by Sathish Fernandes.