Mangaluru: International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 2023, at St Lawrence Church, Bondel in a unique way on the occasion of ‘International Women’s Day’. The Celebration began with a Thanksgiving Mass at 7 a.m. celebrated by the Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School Rev Fr. Peter Gonsalves.
There was a get-together at 9 a.m. in the St Lawrence English Medium Hall. A seminar on “My Health Is in My Hands” Related Health Issues’ was organised as part of the programme. The programme began with a prayer song led by the members of the Women’s Association. Avitha Mascarenhas welcomed the gathering. Members offered flower bouquets to the guests on the dais. Irene Dias Secretary presented the annual report of the association.
Rev Fr. Andrew Leo D’Souza-Parish Priest presided over the inaugural programme. The inauguration was done in a creative way. The dignitaries on the dais placed the icons of the Virtues of a woman around a stand upon which the lamp was placed.
Rev Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza-Parish Priest of St Lawrence Church. Rev Fr Lancy D’Souza-Assistant Parish Priest, Sr Lavina UMI, Reshell R Fernandes -, John D’Silva Vice President, Parish Pastoral Council, Santhosh Misquith –Secretary Parish Pastoral Council, Avitha Mascarenhas President, Irene Dias, Secretary Ladies Association were on the dais.
In his Presidential Address, Rev Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza highlighted the role of women as pillars of both the family and society. In modern times along with family responsibility women have been registering their presence in various fields of social and economic activities. Hence, their responsibilities have doubled and they have proven themselves through their dedication and hard work. God has given a big heart to women. It would be better if men also join in the celebration of International Women’s Day so that they can understand the problems faced by women and share the burden of the women in their families in a meaningful way. He further said that women should take Mother Mary as their model and work for the betterment of their families, society and nation.
Rina Maria D’Souza, Irene D’Cunha, Mildred D’Souza, and Lynette D’Sa were honoured and felicitated for sacrificing their career for their family.
As a gesture from the women’s association, five school children of St Lawrence English Medium School were given Rs. 5,000 each, a school bag, and books. Medical help was given to Baby Sweedle Lobo, a special child who is not able to walk and needs the support of a walker. She was given Rs. 25000 as her medical help.
Veronica Pais introduced Rishell R Fernandez, the resource person of the day.
On this special occasion, Rishell Fernandez addressed the gathering on the importance of ‘Health’. She said that Health is Wealth and therefore if one is healthy then one can do anything and even achieve one’s goal in life. Further, she said highlighted the important role of women in today’s society, that women are the ones who build families by sacrificing themselves for the others in the family. Presentation Slides on Healthy Eating Motivating healthy eating were presented by her.
The formal function was followed by a variety entertainment programme presented by Members like songs & Dance. Prizes were distributed to the winners.
Mohiuddin Bava gave a flying visit to the Programme escorted by his team members. In his address, he said, “International Women’s Day has put the spotlight on issues affecting women all over the world. Today, International Women’s Day belongs to anyone who believes that women’s rights are human rights that must be respected in all aspects of life.
Cecilia D’Cunha rendered the vote of thanks. The programme was compered by Anitha Concesso.
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