Mangaluru: The Small Christian Community (SCC) Day and Parish Day at Holy Family Church, Omzoor, were marked with a grand celebration on Sunday, January 19. The day began with a Holy Eucharistic mass led by Fr Valerian Pinto, Chaplain of Nirmala Convent, who emphasized the importance of living according to Jesus’s teachings. Co-celebrants included Fr William Menezes, parish priest of Holy Family Church Omzoor; Fr Manohar D’Souza, Superior of Monte Mariano Convent, Farangipet; and Fr Nelson D’Souza, an Omzoor native serving in Gujarat’s Archdiocese of Gandhinagar.
Felicitation Program
A felicitation program followed the mass, beginning with a vibrant welcome dance by high school students. The dais featured distinguished guests including Fr Valerian Pinto, Fr William Menezes, Fr Manohar D’Souza, Fr Nelson D’Souza, Sr Vinitha D’Souza (headmistress of Holy Family School), Arthur D’Souza (vice president, Parish Pastoral Council), Daffny Lewis (secretary, Parish Pastoral Council), Elroy Saldanha (convener, all commissions), Dexter Saldanha (SCC coordinator), and Jacintha D’Souza (SCC secretary).
Highlights
- Felicitations: Former gurkars were honored for their service, alongside couples celebrating silver and golden wedding jubilees. Fr Valerian Pinto was specially felicitated for 50 years of priesthood, recalling fond memories of his service in Omzoor from 1974-76.
- Competitions: Winners of Crib and Star contests organized by Catholic Sabha Omzoor were awarded cash prizes sponsored by Lancy D’Souza & Family, Dubai.
- Cultural Events: Various wards showcased cultural performances.
Conclusion
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Roshni D’Souza, compering by Roylin Saldanha and Hancil Rodrigues, and a fellowship dinner prepared by members of 18 wards.
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