Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 4: St Sebastian Church, Bendur hosted a vibrant and spiritually uplifting event, Marian Nite on May 31, marking the conclusion of the Month of May – traditionally dedicated to honouring Our Blessed Mother Mary. The event brought together parishioners of all ages in a celebration of faith, devotion, and community spirit.
The programme began on a reverent note with a soulful Marian hymn rendered by the church choir, setting a prayerful atmosphere. Vinod D’Souza, vice president of the parish pastoral council, extended a warm welcome to all gathered and introduced the evening’s theme and significance.
The event featured a series of zone-wise competitions that showcased creativity and devotion, including:
• Marian dress competition
• Marian hymn singing
• Marian dance performance
• Marian quiz
Participants from various zones took part enthusiastically, making each performance a heartfelt tribute to Mother Mary.
A distinguished panel of judges was invited to evaluate the competitions:
• Fr Joswin Praveen D’Souza, professor at St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu
• Sr Renita Rego, Bethany Convent
• Anitha Rodrigues, lecturer at Padua PU College
They praised the participants for their artistic expressions and deep devotion. Winners were felicitated with prizes in appreciation of their efforts and talents.
Fr Walter D’Souza, parish priest, delivered an inspiring message, reflecting on the virtues of Mary and encouraging the faithful to model their lives on her humility, courage, and unwavering trust in God. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event.
As the evening drew to a close, Patsy Britto, parish secretary, delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the dedicated efforts of the organizers, volunteers, participants, judges, choir, youth leaders, and the entire parish community for making Marian Nite a memorable and meaningful celebration.
The programme concluded with a sense of spiritual fulfilment, joy, and a renewed commitment to walk in the footsteps of the Blessed Mother.