Daijiworld Media Network - Shimoga (SP)
Shimoga, Sep 10: Bhadravati taluk office of the Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations was inaugurated by Fr Mark D'Silva, chief priest of the Infant Jesus Shrine, Sharavati Nagar, Shimoga here recently. Pastor Paulose conducted the prayer ritual. Fr Denis Mathias, priest of Bhadravati New Town Church, blessed the venue.
The meeting held thereafter, at Jayashree Kalyana Mantap, was presided by Fr Mark D'Silva. Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations state general secretary Michael Baptist, state convener Denis D'Silva and priest Fr Dennis Mathias, who participated as chief guests, were at the dais. Federation's coordinator from Bangalore, Antony Swamy, Federation's district president Yesudas, St Charles Convent superior and District Pastors Association president, Pastor Devanesan Samuel, CSI Church pastor Gidione, Luther Church pastor Samuel and pastor Shant Kumar were are also at the dais.
In his presidential address, Fr Mark D'Silva, praised Ronald Colaco for his way ot functioning, his concern for the Christian community and the service he has rendered to the Christians in particular and various social sectors in general. He expressed his appreciation for the efforts being made by Colaco to bring all the Christians of Karnataka under a single roof of the Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations.
Addressing the gathering, FKCA general secretary Michael Baptist gave a call to all the Christians to come together to strengthen the community. State convener Denis D'Silva explained about the aim and objectives of the Federation and asked the Christians to take advantage of the services being offered by the office now inaugurated. He wished that the office will become a pooling centre of information on government facilities and asked the people to put in efforts through the Federation, to achieve social, economic, educational and political progress.
Karnataka Minorities Development Corporation manager Ajmat Ulla, Child Development Programme officer G G Suresh, senior citizen and councillor Sadanand and Edwin J D'Souza of State Bank of Mysore dwelt on various facilities the people belonging to minorities are eligible for.
Later, a programme of devotional songs was presented by 'Agni Gospel Melodies'. Cyril D'Costa, president of the Federation's Bhadravati branch, welcomed. Secretary William proposed vote of thanks. Leena D'Souza presented the programme.
Leaders of different Christian groups, priests, sisters and about 1,200 Christians took part in the programme. Food was served to all those who participated.