Silvester D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (EP)

Kundapur, Jan 16: "The works of charity, especially the work of God and the well-being of His people, leave a lasting impression in society. Education is necessary to drive away poverty, superstition and ignorance. We should take special initiative towards places which help us pray in devotion and thereby maintain peace, happiness and welfare of society," said Udupi district in-charge minister Vinay Kumar Sorake. 

He was speaking as the chief guest during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the renovation of Immaculate Conception Church, Gangolli here on Friday, January 15.

"The state government will participate in the renovation of the church which has a history of 385 years, built during the Portuguese rule. Sincere efforts will be made to obtain necessary funds from the government. The government will join hands in the renovation of such historic churches in future too," he said.

Udupi diocese Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo laid the foundation stone and blessed the occasion.

MLC Ivan D' Souza, Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Ltd president Veronica Cornelio, Kundapur deanery president Fr Anil D'Souza, businessman H Ganesh Kamath, Gangolli gram panchayat president Reshma R Kharvi, Karkala Attur church parish priest Fr Alphonso D'Lima, sister Juliana, Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy president Roy Castelino, secretary of parish pastoral council Preethi Fernandes and others were present.

Gangolli church parish priest Fr Albert Crasta welcomed and delivered the keynote address. Shalet Lobo and Ovin Rebello compered the programme. Parish pastoral council vice-president Gerald Crasta proposed the vote of thanks.