Media Release
Mangaluru, June 24: The Masonic societies of Mangaluru and Udupi celebrated Universal Brotherhood Day on June 21 at Mangalore Club. The event was attended by a large number of Freemasons from Mangaluru and Udupi, as well as several members from outside the region.
The chief guest was Bro Jacques Huyghebaert, Past Grand Master of the Czech Republic, while Bro Gopalakrishna Shenoy, ARGM, was the guest of honour. Bro Palli Sadananda Shetty presided over the function.
Bro Jacques delivered the keynote address titled “To Live Respected and Command Respect.”
Senior Freemason Bro Dr Divaker Rao was felicitated for his long-standing and dedicated service to Freemasonry, while Sophia Zacharias was honoured as the “Model Masonic Mother”.
Universal Brotherhood Day is celebrated globally by Freemasons on June 24. The occasion focuses on community service, charity and public outreach. It serves as an opportunity for members to reaffirm the core Masonic tenets of charity, truth and brotherly love.
Freemasons also use the occasion to give back to society, rededicate themselves to Masonic values, and engage with the public by opening their doors to dispel notions of secrecy and share their history and community contributions.
Donations were made to Ramakrishna Mission, Abhaya Ashraya, Roman and Catherine Lobo School for the Blind, Anand Ashram Seva Trust, Sri Krishna Charitable Trust and Fr L M Pinto Charitable Trust.
The event was organised by a committee of Freemasons, with Bro Dr A G Jayakrishnan serving as the convener.