The Mangalore Diocese’s Diocesan Pastoral Parishad (DPP) honoured recipients of the District Award recognised on Kannada Rajyotsava Day, 1 November, during a special felicitation ceremony held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the Bishop’s House conference hall. The event coincided with the fifth meeting of the Diocesan Pastoral Parishad for the 2023–2025 term and was attended by diocesan officials, commission secretaries, priests, heads of religious congregations, lay leaders, and representatives from various communities.
Honouring the achievers
The awardees were felicitated with shawls by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, garlands by Very Rev. Maxim Noronha, Vicar General of the Diocese, and a potted plant symbolising growth and sustainability by Dr John D’Silva, Secretary of the Pastoral Parishad, along with Rev. Dr J. B. Saldanha, PRO of the Diocese.
List of honourees
District Award Achievers on Kannada Rajyotsava Day:
- Mercy Veena D’Souza, Bejai
- Herbert D’Souza, Cascia (Absent)
- William D’Souza, Bendur
- Munitha Veigas, Bendur
- Ronald Martis, Kulshekar
- Ronald Fernandes, Permude
- John D’Souza, Sarapady
- Olavinahalli, Paneer
- United Friends, Bejai
- Dayanilaya Special School, Belthangady
- St Agnes Special School
State Rajyotsava Awardee:
- Fr Prasanth Madtha (Absent)
Karnataka Suvarna Mahotsava Awardee:
- Prof Rita Noronha, Vamanjoor
Inspiring words from the Bishop
In his address, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha commended the awardees for their outstanding achievements and the inspiration they provide to the community. He remarked:
“Your achievements are a testament to the values of perseverance, commitment, and service. By recognising your efforts, we aim to inspire others to lead lives marked by selflessness and excellence. May you continue to be shining examples of faith, drawing others towards purposeful living in the light of the Gospel.”
Gratitude from the awardees
Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Mr William D’Souza from Bendur expressed his appreciation:
“I am overwhelmed by this honour and thrilled to see so many of our community members being recognised for their commendable service. I thank the diocese for this recognition, which inspires us to continue our work and motivates others to achieve and serve.”
Coordination and execution
The event was meticulously organised and compered by Fr Rupesh Madtha, Editor of Raknno Weekly, with coordination by Mr Roy Castelino, PRO of the Diocese. Both introduced the achievements of each awardee during the felicitation ceremony.
This celebration highlighted the Diocese’s commitment to fostering community spirit and recognising contributions that resonate with the values of service, faith, and perseverance.
