Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 3: Holy Spirit Church Bajal inaugurated its platinum jubilee on New Year’s Eve. Fr Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, bishop of Mangaluru was the main celebrant and offered the Holy Eucharistic celebration.
After the Eucharistic celebration, there was a stage programme commemorating the 75 years of spiritual journey of Holy Spirit Church. The bishop presided over the programme, inaugurated the platinum jubilee celebrations and also the website of the parish. Speaking to the parishioners, he said, “Bajal was a very backward and rural place. By the efforts and struggle of the pioneer priests like Fr Leo Cutinha and others, the area has improved and faith has grown in our families. As we celebrate 75 years of our existence, let us look back into our journey, thank God for his goodness, feel the presence of God in our hearts and stretch our hands to the needy around us. May the faith given by our ancestors grow and may our children carry it over to many more generations to come.”
Mangaluru South constituency MLA J R Lobo inaugurated the logo of the platinum jubilee. Addressing the gathering, he said, “We all are moving towards modern technology and more money but fail to try to get government jobs. When we are in government sector, we will be able to overcome corruption and build a healthy society.”
On the occasion, a video was presented showing the 75 years of Bajal parish. A tableau directed by Simon Pais was enacted by the parishioners, showing glimpse of the past and present of Bajal church.
Kankanady ward corporator Praveen Chandra Alva wished all goodness in the jubilee year. Bajal parish council vice president Henry D’Souza , and platinum jubilee committee president Alwyn D’Souza were present on the dais.
Parish priest Fr Cyril Pinto welcomed the guest and the gathering, and parish council secretary Maurice D’Souza thanked everyone. Seema Tauro and Lydia Lobo compered the programme. A delicious and sumptuous dinner was arranged for the parishioners sponsored by Roshan Saldana. A cultural programme led by Jaison followed the dinner.