Media Release

Mangaluru, Jul 11: The Men’s Jubilee celebration was joyfully held on July 6 at St Sebastian Church, Bendur. The event began with a special Rosary, offered for the intentions and well-being of all men in the parish. This was followed by the Holy Mass, celebrated by the parish priest Fr Walter D’Souza. In his homily, Fr Walter emphasized the importance of men’s roles in the family, Church, and society, encouraging them to lead with faith, commitment, and values. The liturgy and choir were led entirely by men, making the Eucharistic celebration special and meaningful.

The cultural celebration began in the Centenary Auditorium, in the presence of Fr Walter D’Souza, vicar, Fr Vivek Pinto and Fr Osmond D’Souza, assistant parish priests, Fr Arun Lobo, principal of Padua College, Vinod D’Souza, vice president PPC, Patsy Britto, secretary, Deepak D’Souza all commission convenor, J R Lobo, former MLA, Dr Edward Nazareth.

The programme was compered by Allwyn D’Souza, who led the evening with great enthusiasm and humour. The event began with prayer and blessings by Fr Osmond D’Souza, followed by a warm welcome speech by Deepak D’Souza. The celebration was inaugurated by lighting the lamp by the dignitaries.

A special felicitation ceremony was held to honour six distinguished parishioners for their notable achievements and contributions:

Lawrence Alvares – Konkani writer

Clifford D’Souza – Singer, writer and music composer

Commodore Allan Quadros – Indian Navy

Commander G P Mascarenhas (Retd) – Indian Navy

Dr Edward Nazareth – Renowned Konkani writer and health contributor

Eddie Sequeira – Kala Puraskar awardee from MCA Qatar

Following the felicitation, Dr Edward Nazareth delivered an insightful session on men’s health, focusing on preventive care and wellness tips for men over 40 and 60.

A best traditional dress competition was held, with enthusiastic participation. The evening featured group songs, dances, and a skit, all presented by men’s teams and appreciated by the audience.

Prizes were distributed to winners of various sports and fun games conducted in the previous weeks, including volleyball, dodge ball, and other team games and fun challenges organized as part of the Men’s Jubilee.

The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Nelson Monteiro, followed by the blessing of the meal by Fr Vivek Pinto, and a fellowship dinner.

It was a day filled with fellowship, fun, and faith, leaving behind lasting memories and a renewed spirit of unity among the men of the parish.