Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 4: The parishioners of St Sebastian Church, Bendur came together in joy and gratitude to celebrate the religious jubilee and Priests’ Day on Sunday, August 3. The event was organized to honor the priests and religious sisters for their unwavering dedication and service to the Church and community.
The celebration began with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass in the church, presided over by Fr Walter D’Souza, the parish priest of Bendur. He was joined at the altar by Fr Arun Lobo, Fr Ozmond D’Souza, and Fr Vivek Pinto, who concelebrated the Eucharist. The Mass was offered in thanksgiving for the gift of religious vocations and to honor the many priests and sisters who have served and are currently serving in the parish.


























































The formal celebration commenced later in the Community Hall. The evening began with a soulful prayer song rendered by the sisters of Bridgettine Convent, followed by a graceful welcome dance performed by the sisters of Bethany Convent, Nanthoor. A prayer and blessing was then offered by Fr Arun Lobo, invoking God’s grace upon all present.
Dr Shalet D’Souza, a member of the health commission, extended a warm welcome address to all dignitaries, religious, and parishioners. The jubilee celebration was officially inaugurated with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the parish priest, assistant priests, superiors of all convents, along with the vice president and secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council.
As a heartfelt tribute, the parishioners presented a felicitation song, specially composed and written by Fr Walter D’Souza, dedicated to all the religious for their selfless commitment and contribution to the Church and society.
A felicitation ceremony followed, wherein priests, convent superiors, and heads of institutions were honored with shawls, flowers, and mementos for their devoted service.
In honor of St John Mary Vianney, the patron saint of priests, the celebration of Priests’ Day was marked by a joyful cake-cutting ceremony by the priests. Fr Walter D’Souza also shared a touching message and reflection, thanking the religious for their sacrifices and encouraging them to continue their mission with joy.
The evening continued with a vibrant lineup of cultural performances that reflected the joy and spirit of religious life. A melodious and lively group song by the Yesu Prema Nikethan Sisters set a cheerful and festive tone for the evening. This was followed by a heartfelt sharing by Sr Valenteena and Sr Ranjitha, who spoke about their personal journeys in religious life, offering the audience a touching glimpse into their vocation, challenges, and unwavering commitment to God’s mission.
An energetic and engaging action song by the sisters of St Agnes Convent added excitement and delight, captivating the audience with its joy-filled movements. The sisters of Sevanilaya Convent brought vibrancy to the stage through a graceful and colorful group dance, expressing unity and celebration. The cultural segment concluded meaningfully with a thoughtful skit titled ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, presented by the Bethany Mother House sisters, portraying the journey, resilience, and hope that characterizes the consecrated life.
A surprise element that had everyone clapping and smiling was a Baila medley presented by Fr Walter D’Souza and the parish priests, which created an atmosphere of celebration and fellowship. Adding a touch of fun and interaction, members of CAL Bendur conducted games for the religious, distributing small prizes and bringing out the lighter, joyful spirit of the gathering.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Kishore Fernandes, president of Catholic Sabha, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the programme. The evening was gracefully compered by Sr Renita, whose joyful presence and smooth coordination kept the celebration lively and engaging throughout. Before the meal, Fr Ozmond D’Souza offered a blessing over the food, after which all gathered enjoyed a delicious fellowship meal lovingly prepared by the sisters.
The religious jubilee was a beautiful blend of reverence, gratitude, and joy, honoring those who have dedicated their lives in the service of God and His people. It was not only a celebration, but also a reminder of the strength and beauty of a life lived in faith and mission.