Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 14: The women’s jubilee celebration was held with great joy and devotion at St Sebastian Church, Bendur, on September 13.
The programme began with a Thanksgiving Mass, celebrated by our parish vicar as the main celebrant. In his meaningful homily, the vicar reflected on the vital role of women in the family, Church, and society, drawing inspiration from the lives of Mary, Martha, Mother Teresa, and many others who dedicated themselves to faith, service, and love.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the evening’s cultural programme commenced in the Centenary Auditorium. The programme opened with a melodious prayer song presented by the parish choir, setting a devotional atmosphere. This was followed by a welcome dance performed gracefully by the members of the Ladies Social Service League.
The event was graced by the presence of vicar Fr Walter D’Souza, assistant parish priests Fr Vivek Pinto and Fr Osmond D’Souza, principal Fr Arun Lobo, vice president Vinod D’Souza, secretary Patsy Britto, all commission convenor Deepak D’Souza, along with the lady presidents of various parish associations. Women’s Commission Convenor Sr Shubha welcomed the gathering warmly and presented a beautifully crafted handmade flower vase as a token of appreciation.
The chief guest of the day was Leeza Rodrigues, a well-known MC and toast master, MBA graduate, Youtuber, Anchor for Podcast Carmel Café, student trainer and public speaker, health coach and Diabetic educator. In her inspiring address, she highlighted the challenges faced by women in family life, encouraging them to remain strong, balance their responsibilities, and give quality time to their loved ones.
The highlight of the celebration was the honouring of distinguished women achievers from the parish for their remarkable contributions in various fields.
They included:
• Mary Hilda D’Souza – International medal winner in athletics.
• Philomena Lobo – Joint director of Public Instruction, Govt of Karnataka.
• Laveena D’Souza – Mother of five children, symbol of family strength.
• Mariyamma Thomas – Advocate and ex corporator
• Irene D’Cunha – District commissioner of Guides.
• Anitha Frank – Diocesan Women’s Commission secretary.
• Dr Cryshal Mathias – Awarded PhD in Commerce from Mangalore University.
• Ida D’Souza – Juvenile board member, handling child-related cases.
Each of the achievers was honoured with a shawl, memento, and gift in recognition of their excellence and service.
This was followed by the distribution of prizes to the winners of various competitions held as part of the Jubilee celebrations. In his message, the vicar congratulated the achievers and participants, urging everyone to draw inspiration from the strong women in our Church and community.
A special moment was created when the priests of the parish sang a song of wishes, composed and written by the vicar himself, which was warmly appreciated by the audience.
The evening also featured a colourful cultural programme:
• A comedy skit by the Legion of Mary members, bringing smiles and laughter.
• A lively Qawwali song by the Women’s Commission members on the theme of marriage.
• A thought-provoking skit on mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationships in olden and modern times, presented by parish women.
• A musical skit titled ‘Mobile and Bile’ highlighting the impact of mobile phones on family life in today’s society.
The programme concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Gracy, who expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the celebration. The event was beautifully compered by Blosom Rego.
The joyous celebration ended with a delicious dinner prepared by the women of the parish, fostering fellowship and togetherness among all gathered.