Pics by: Melwyn Mascarenhas

Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (JD)

Kundapur, Apr 13: The newly renovated silver jubilee hall of St Pius X Church, Piusnagar, Kundapur, was inaugurated and blessed by Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, apostolic administrator of the diocese of Udupi, on Sunday, April 12.

The event was graced by the presence of Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, apostolic administrator of the diocese of Udupi; Fr Albert Crasta, parish priest of St Pius X Church; Fr Paul Rego, parish priest of Holy Rosary Church, Kundapur; Sr Veronica Menezes, superior of St Anne's Convent; James D’Mello, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Committee; Reshma D’Souza, secretary; and Prameela D’Sa, convener of the 20 Commissions.

Prameela D’Sa, convener of the 20 commissions, welcomed the gathering. Reshma D’Souza, secretary of the Parish Pastoral Committee, proposed the vote of thanks. Alexander Lewis and Jyothi D’Mello compered the programme.

James D’Mello, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Committee, in his introductory note said, "A long-time dream of Piusnagar parishioners is fulfilled today. The previous hall was built in commemoration of the silver jubilee celebrations of Piusnagar parish. We used the hall for nearly 37 years. The parishioners felt the need for a new hall. It was later decided to renovate the existing hall. We also formed a building committee consisting of representatives and experts from various wards. With great efforts from parishioners, along with the able leadership of parish priest Fr Albert Crasta, we have successfully completed the complete renovation of the hall. The renovated hall is an AC and non-AC facility, having all the state-of-the-art modern amenities. A separate dining hall, which can also be used as a mini hall, is also attached to the hall."

Donors, contributors, sponsors, contractors, building committee members, core committee members, and parish priest Fr Albert Crasta were felicitated by Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, apostolic administrator of the diocese of Udupi.

Fr Paul Rego, parish priest of Holy Rosary Church, Kundapur, and deanery head of Kundapur Deanery, said in his address, "The hall is renovated considering modern requirements and amenities. You have worked together, joining hands with the leadership. Every contribution has paid off. A hall is a necessity today. It will be used for various occasions in the coming days."

Fr Albert Crasta, parish priest, said in his message, "A well-furnished hall, equipped with all amenities, is built today. This was a dream, and with everyone's efforts, it has been completed today. I am very much thankful today. It was a necessity for the parish. Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo encouraged and supported us at every step. The Parish Pastoral Committee and Finance Committee played a vital role along with the building committee. I thank all the donors—big or small—for their contributions. I want to thank all the contractors who contributed their efforts in building this hall. Let this hall be a reason for our belongingness and love."

Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, apostolic administrator, said in his message, "I congratulate all the parishioners for the successful completion of the work. The hall is built with a vision, keeping in mind the requirements of the next 25 years. The idea of a Synod church is reflected here today, as everyone participated in the work, considering it their own project. This is the fourth hall equipped with air conditioning in our diocese. This has become a reality with the contribution of each and every person. James D’Mello, vice president, was present every time I visited the ongoing construction. This hall should be utilised to the maximum in the coming days. Let it be used not only for occasions but also for various training programmes. The parish priest took real leadership, bringing everyone together and working toward a single goal."

Fr Albert Crasta and James D’Mello were felicitated by the diocese of Udupi for their service.