Mangaluru: Ave Maria Palliative Care, a unit of Centre for Development, Studies and Education, Regd. located in Mangala Nagara, Vamanjoor, held its annual memorial service and donor/volunteer appreciation event at its premises on October 18.
The programme began with an invocation song by the Ave Maria staff.
Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of the Mangalore Diocese, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that caste and religion do not have a place in humanitarian service. Pain and sufferings are universal and only when we collectively respond to others as members of one family, life becomes worth its while. Instilling strength and hope is what we are called to do.
During the solemn memorial service, the loved ones of the dearly departed patients paid their respects to the deceased by lighting candles. Families of eye and body donors were recognized on the occasion.
Donors, well-wishers, and volunteers of Ave Maria were honored with fruit saplings as a token of appreciation.
A folk dance and a short skit were enacted by Ave Maria staff.
F.M. Lobo and the team serenaded the guests with soft instrumental music. The programme was compeered by Mrs. Bharathi Shevgoor and ended with a fellowship meal.
Rev. Dr. Wilfred Rodrigues, OCD, Superior of Infant Jesus Shrine welcomed the gathering. Dr. Lavina Noronha, Director of Ave Maria Palliative Care proposed a vote of thanks.
