Media Release

Shivamogga, Aug 13: The 36th foundation Day of Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society (SMSSS) was celebrated in splendour and grace at Chaitanya on Tuesday, August 13.

The celebrations commenced with a warm welcome to his excellency Dr Francis Serrao SJ, bishop of Shimoga and president of the Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society (SMSSS). As he alighted the vehicle he was received with band and music leading him to ‘Chaitanya’ where the large group of people awaited him with Aarthi.

The renewed building of Chaitanya, the centre for social action was blessed by the bishop. He was accompanied by Msgr Stany D’Souza, the vicar general, Fr Franklin D’Souza, the youth director and Fr Pius D’Souza the director SMSSS. This was followed by Holy Eucharist presided over by bishop Francis Serrao SJ with 14 priests concelebrating. Entire SMSSS Staff and some of the earlier staff members, special invitees attended the service.

After the Holy Eucharist a short video presentation was done in the hall recalling the contribution made by the diocesan social centre SMSSS over the past 36 years.

Special contribution made by the past bishops late Dr Ignatius Pinto the founder, Dr Gerard Isaac Lobo, and Dr Francis Serrao SJ the current president. Fr Simon Pinto in his homily spoke on the gratitude of the Institute to God for the loving touch he has made on the work of SMSSS. He also mentioned how spiritually each individual has guided to the progress of the Institute.

A well organised stage programme was arranged at the quadrangle. The staff presented a welcome dance to begin the programme. This was followed by the welcome address by the director Fr Pius D’Souza, origin and significance by Msgr Stanish S D’Souza the vicar general of the diocese and vice president of SMSSS, shared his reflections on the center’s evolution and praised its unwavering commitment to social justice and empowerment.

Anand, the chief guest and a former staff member, delivered a heartfelt speech. He credited Chaitanya for shaping his personal and professional journey, stating, “This center didn’t just give me a job—it gave me purpose.” The programme was aptly titled “Gratitude Day”, focusing on honouring the contributions of former directors and staff members who laid the foundation for The Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society’s enduring legacy. Their presence brought nostalgia and joy, as stories of dedication and resilience were shared.

Several former staff of the centre were welcomed warmly specially honoured. Bishop Francis Serrao SJ spoke on the insight and contributions of the Institute and how over the years it has helped hundreds of people in education, self-employment, health and other areas.

He also mentioned of the contribution of different directors to shape the vision of the centre. The video recalled the contribution of every director from the inception and the dedicated staff who have helped the centre to grow to newer heights. This was followed by the blessing and inauguration of the newly established counselling centre at the Chaitanya premises.

Guests were treated to a sumptuous meal, reflecting the center’s spirit of hospitality and togetherness. The afternoon featured a “Sharing and Caring” session, where former and present staff exchanged memories, experiences, and renewed their bond with the mission of Chaitanya. Thereafter the program continued with cultural performances, including dances and activities, followed by work experience sharing by former staff members, which inspired and motivated the present team. The day concluded with an expression of gratitude to all participants for making the event meaningful and memorable.

For 36 years, The Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society -SMSSS has been a pillar of hope and transformation, working across sectors like education, women empowerment, child welfare, and rural development, health and development etc. The Foundation Day was not just a celebration, it was a reaffirmation of its mission to serve with love, dignity, and purpose.

As the day concluded, one message rang clear: Gratitude is the seed of growth, and SMSSS continues to flourish because of the countless lives it has touched and those who have touched it in return.