Media Release

Mangaluru, Mar 17: The Women’s Day celebration was held with great joy and devotion at Infant Mary Church, Bajjodi, on March 15.

The programme began with a Thanksgiving Mass, celebrated by the parish priest. In his meaningful homily, he reflected on the role of women in the family, church and society.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the evening’s cultural programme began in the church hall. The programme started with a few games conducted by Alvita Pinto and Jessica Mendonca. It then opened with a melodious prayer song presented by the Stree Sangatan and Stree Ayog women, creating a devotional atmosphere.

The event was graced by the presence of parish priest Fr Dr Dominic vas. Chief guest Fr Ivan Robert D’Souza, assistant parish priest Fr Pranam Fernandes, parish vice president Vincent Pinto, secretary Janet D’Souza, all commission convenor Asuntha Mendonca along the Stree Sangatan and Stree Ayog president Jacintha Monis, secretary Meena Pinto. Stree Sangatan president Jacintha Monis welcomed the gathering warmly and presented a beautifully rose as a token of love and appreciation. Stree Sangatan president Jacintha Monis welcomed the gathering warmly and presented a rose as a token of love and appreciation.

The president of the programme Fr Dr Dominic Vas vicar of Infant Mary Chuch Bajjodi in his message, He highlighted the challenges faced by women in family life, encouraging them to remain strong women in our Church and community.

The chief guest of the evening was Fr Ivan D’Souza, editor of the Naman Balok Jeju Konkani Magazine. In his inspiring address, he spoke about the Stree Sangatan how it began in Bajjodi, the purpose behind its formation, and encouraged women to join the sangatan.

The highlight of the celebration was the honouring of Irene Pinto, a distinguished woman achiever from the parish for her remarkable contributions in various fields. She was honoured with a shawl, fruits, flowers, and a gift in recognition of her service. Asuntha Mendonca introduced the honouree.

The evening also featured a colourful cultural programme.

A comedy skit by Santhosh and his group brought smiles and laughter to the audience.

This was followed by a lively musical night a dance performance by the Stree Sangatan members.

The altar servers also presented an energetic dance and Konkani songs.

The programme concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Joyce Rodrigues, who expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration. The event was beautifully compered by Molly Rodrigues.

The joyous celebration ended with delicious snacks and ice cream prepared by M/s Santhosh Caterers, Joseph Pinto and team, fostering fellowship and togetherness among all gathered.

This was followed by the distribution of prizes to the winners of various competitions held as part of the women’s day celebrations.