Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 16: “We are called to be people of hope, lighting a candle wherever there is darkness,” urged Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangalore, while addressing the gathering at the Annual Day celebration of the Mangaluru Unit of Prison Ministry India (PMI).
The programme, held at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, on August 14, coincided with the feast of St Maximilian Kolbe, patron saint of PMI, who gave his life at Auschwitz in place of another prisoner, embodying the true spirit of Christian hope.
The celebration began with a solemn Eucharistic Mass presided over by bishop Saldanha. In his homily, the bishop recalled the sacrifice of St Kolbe, who became a beacon of hope amid inhuman suffering, and encouraged the faithful to embrace perseverance and courage: “If you know the why, you can bear any how. That which does not kill you makes you stronger.”
The formal programme that followed featured a welcome address by Donald Cutinha, coordinator of PMI Mangaluru unit, and the annual report presented by Linet Castelino, secretary. Jerome Lobo, former coordinator, proposed the vote of thanks, while Sr Preethi Sharon compered the event. Lucy Pais, treasurer, and Lawrence Crasta, assistant coordinator, were also present.
A special moment of the evening was the felicitation of Hilda Lobo andDavid Fernandes, who have served the unit with dedication for over 23 years. Their long-standing commitment was deeply appreciated by both the unit and the gathering. In recognition of the humanitarian services carried out by PMI, the programme was attended by DySP Subash, police constable Bharat, and district jail counsellor Denis D’Souza.
Established 26 years ago under the spiritual guidance of the Carmelite Fathers of the Infant Jesus Shrine, the PMI Mangaluru Unit is a voluntary body of religious sisters and lay faithful. Members visit prisoners weekly, listen to their struggles, extend legal aid, and support their families. They provide scholarships to children of inmates, assist with hospital care, and conduct health camps. The unit also runs rehabilitation efforts by training inmates to make paper carry bags and hair bands, and helps them find jobs after release.
Fr Stifan Pereira, spiritual director, and Fr Melvin D’Cunha, superior of St Joseph’s Monastery, were present at the event. The day’s celebration highlighted PMI’s mission: to uphold the dignity of every human person and bring hope where it is most needed.