Media Release

Udupi, Aug 17: The inauguration and blessing of two newly constructed houses for families in need was held at Christ Church, Manipal Parish, on August 16. Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza, bishop, Diocese of Udupi, inaugurated and blessed the houses.

The project was initiated one and a half years ago under the guidance of the Diocese of Udupi to commemorate the Jubilee Year 2025. It forms part of the Diocese’s mission to encourage every parish to construct at least one house for a deserving family.

Responding generously to this initiative, the parish priest of Christ Church Fr Romeo Lewis, with the support of the parish pastoral council, parishioners and various parish associations, undertook the construction of two houses. Alwyn Saldanha, vice-president of the parish pastoral council, served as the project coordinator. The houses were completed on schedule and handed over to two deserving beneficiaries, Pavitra and Florina, Lourdes ward.

In his address, Bishop Leslie appreciated the commendable work of the parish priest, parishioners, donors and parish associations that supported the project. He said that he felt fortunate to bless Christ Church and the two houses during his first visit to the parish following his episcopal ordination as Bishop of Udupi. He also expressed his happiness that these two memorable events in his episcopal ministry had taken place at Manipal Parish.

Simple Cutinha compered the programme. Among those present were Alwyn Saldanha, vice-president of the parish pastoral council; Dr Sabitha Mendonca, secretary; Lawrence D’Almeida, pastoral commission coordinator, Jerome Mendonca, ward leader, ward representatives; members of the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

The programme concluded with a hymn of thanksgiving. The beneficiary families expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the bishop, the parish priest, the donors and everyone who contributed to making their dream of owning a home a reality.