Media Release

Mangaluru, Dec 24: The Christmas celebration at St Ann’s Convent, was held on December 22. The programme was specially organised to celebrate Christmas with the transgender community of Mangaluru, affirming the message of inclusivity, dignity and humanity.

The celebration was organised by St Ann’s Convent as a Christmas outreach programme bringing together the sisters and 20 members of the transgender community.

The special invitee for the programme was Sanjana Chalawadi, president of the Parivarthan Charitable Trust, along with members of the transgender community. Sr Maria Naveena, the provincial superior and her team, Sr Smitha, the superior and sisters of St Ann’s Convent and Carmel Convent, Ashanikethan, participated in the celebration.

The programme began with a cordial welcome extended to Sanjana Chalawadi and all members of the transgender community, acknowledging their presence as a blessing to the celebration. The gathering was then led into an atmosphere of prayer through a prayer dance.

A short cultural programme included a Christmas skit, carols and dance by students and sisters, which helped create a joyful ambience, enabling all to participate actively and meaningfully.

Members of the transgender community were given space to share their experiences, joys and struggles, which helped foster empathy, deeper understanding and mutual respect among the participants. Their presence and active participation highlighted the importance of creating safe, affirming spaces in the Church and society where every person is welcomed and valued.

In her message, the special invitee highlighted the mission of Parivarthan Charitable Trust as “a ray of hope for the transgenders” and expressed gratitude to St Ann’s Convent for their gesture of acceptance and solidarity. The programme concluded with festive greetings, an exchange of warm wishes, Christmas goodies and the reaffirmation of the Christmas message.