Anju D`Souza - Daijiworld News Network Mangalore

Kundapur, jan 22: The renovation works of seven-decade-old Pandukone St Antony's Church is underway. The  Padukone church was under the jurisdiction of Gangolli church from 1916-21. It became an independent church in Padukone with areas including Nada, Hadavu, Badakere, Marvanthe, Navunda, Heroor, Aloor, Harkoor, Haklady, Senapur and Trasi in 1936.

Ten priests have served the church including Fr Peter D'Sa, Fr Joseph Marian Fernandes, Fr Andrew Pinto and Fr William Menezes. Former Mangalore bishop Basil D'Souza had undertaken the consecration ceremony of Padukone church in 1958.

The Padukone church is not just a religious centre, it is also known for undertaking social and educational activities, health awareness programmes, information programmes on agriculture, water percolation and AIDS. The church in Nada and Padukone is managing two aided schools. The church has contributed to social and religious harmony, bringing together people belonging to various communities.

A committee has been formed for renovating the church under the guidance of Fr Philip Neri Aranha while works have been taken up at a cost of Rs 15 lakh. 

Repairing roofs, cracked walls, construction of portico, plastering and extension of  auditorium are some of the works which will be completed in various stages.  Financial assistance has been availed from donors  and voluntary service has also been utilised in the renovation of the church, he added.

Devotees and well-wishers can send their donations to S/B a/c no.11200
 Vijaya Bank Nada -576262, through Checks and Drafts in favour of
“Renovation committee St. Antony’s church Padukone”.
Tel: Father Neri on 0091-9448109333