News and pics: Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal (EP)

Bantwal, Aug 19: Our Lady of Loretto Church is about to complete 75 years of its existence and the diamond jubilee celebrations were set in motion on Friday August 15.

Fr Henry Sequeira, Chancellor of Mangalore Roman Catholic diocese uncovered the banner of the diamond jubilee and set in motion the celebrations. Fr Elias D' Souza, Chief Priest in the church offered holy mass and Fr Henry Sequeira gave a sermon and blessed hundreds of devotees.

The diamond jubilee celebrations were held along with the Independence Day celebrations. 75 balloons in saffron, white and green, the colors of the national flag were let off to the sky. A dance group consisting of 75 people presented a cultural programme and added attraction.

Convener of the diamond jubilee celebrations committee Walter Noronha, secretary Cyprian D' Souza, Church care taker committee vice president Richard Menezes, secretary Irene D'Souza, Sr Edolene, Sr Sheela and committee members of diamond jubilee committee were present.

Diamond jubilee committee organizer Kevin D'Souza conducted the programme. Several programmes are scheduled during the year under the theme  'The help of Loretto mother is the strength of families in the parish.'

Cyprian D'Souza proposed the vote of thanks.