Media Release
Mangaluru, May 3: The parishioners of Our Lady of Vailankanni Church, Farla, gathered in large numbers to celebrate their Annual Parish Day and Basic Ecclesial Community Day on Friday, May 1.
The day’s proceedings began at 4:30 PM with a solemn Eucharistic celebration led by Rev Dr Rajesh Melwyn Rosario, rector of St. Joseph's Seminary, Jeppu. Parish priest Fr Mark Arun D’Souza, resident priest Fr Theodore D’Cunha, Fr Gilbert Mascarenhas, along with Fr Nickson Joyson D’Souza were the concelebrants.
Following the spiritual commencement, the formal stage programme began at 6:15 PM. The chief Guest, guests of honour, and parish ward leaders (gurkars) were welcomed to the dais, accompanied by the traditional beats of a brass band.
Chief guest for the programme Pius L. Rodrigues (Former BUDA president, former Member of Karnataka Pollution Board, Owner of Levin Group) and Harsha Melwyn Lasrado (director, Karnataka Christian Community Development Corporation, Government of Karnataka), Steevan Castelino (vice president, PPC), Sunitha Baptist (secretary, PPC), Irene D’Souza (coordinator of the Commissions), Anitha Pinto (Basic Ecclesial Community Coordinator), Year of Children’s Representative Carol Sequeira and Alric Vas. The atmosphere was set with a prayer song by the youth.
A significant portion of the evening was dedicated to recognising the contributors of the parish community. Members of the Parish Pastoral Council, catechism students, church volunteers, and families with twins were honoured for their selfless service.
Steevan Castelino, vice president of the parish pastoral council, welcomed the gathering. Secretary Sunitha Baptist presented a report highlighting the parish activities of 2025–26 and also proposed the vote of thanks.
The spirit of the community was most evident during the Parish Family Meal, where traditional food prepared by the parishioners themselves was served to around 350 people. The event was anchored by Jyothi Rodrigues and Roopa Moras.
The evening continued with a vibrant cultural programme featuring various dances and skits, ending with an energetic Baila. The celebration concluded at 10:00 PM.