Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 23: The staff of CODP-ISD and RUSEMP on December 23 held a Christmas get-together in CODP. The well-wishers, neighbours and staff of CODP-ISD-RUSEMP participated in the programme.
The programme commenced with a prayer led by Savitha and team followed by carol singing by the staff.
Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangaluru diocese; Fr Oswald Monteiro, director of CODP; Fr Vincent D Souza, designated director of CODP; Vinod, local ward leader and Sr Smithanjali BS, superior of Bethani Convent were present on the dais.
Fr Oswald welcomed the guests of honor and other participants.
Dr Peter Paul Saldanha inaugurated the programme by cutting the Christmas cake. He said that the meaning of Christmas is peace, love, humanness and serving the needy of our society. He said that God sent his only begotten son Jesus Christ into this world to make us human beings and thus to enter the kingdom of Heaven. His birth was an encounter of Divinity with humans. When human beings through our dialogues experience the divinity, Christmas will become more meaningful.
Fr Vincent in his speech said that the month of December is a season of celebrations mainly because of Christmas. During this season we wish our family, friends and relatives love, peace and happiness and seek the blessings of Jesus Christ whose teachings are relevant today.
Vinod wished all the participants a very merry Christmas and happy New Year 2021. He further said that all the religions should live in peace and harmony and not involve in religious intolerance.
Ravi Kumar Crasta, coordinator of CODP conducted the games. A short Christmas skit was presented by CODP staff while Santa Claus entertained the gathering.
Fr Oswald distributed the Christmas gifts to all the staff, guests and benefactors of family sponsorship.
The Christmas get-together came to a close with sharing of kuswar (home-made Christmas sweets) and a fellowship meal. Shilpa and Veena, a staff of CODP compered the programme and Zeena, a staff of CODP proposed the vote of thanks.