Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 3: The 60th annual general body meeting of the St Christopher Drivers and Owners Association was held with great devotion, pride and enthusiasm on August 2, bringing together members, well-wishers and guests as the association stepped into its diamond jubilee year, celebrating six decades of dedicated service to the community.
The celebrations began with a solemn holy Mass concelebrated by Fr Wilfred Prakash D'Souza, who also invoked god's blessings upon the vehicles and all those engaged in the transport profession, seeking divine protection and guidance for their families and livelihoods.
The formal programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by a warm welcome by Association president Dr John Edward D'Silva, who welcomed the dignitaries, members and guests. Secretary Sunil Peter Lobo presented the annual report, highlighting the Association's activities and achievements during the year, while joint secretary Canute J Pinto presented the audited financial report for 2025-2026.
Recognising the importance of education, the Association honoured meritorious children of its members with the Pratibha Puraskar awards for their outstanding academic achievements. Educational scholarships were also distributed to deserving students, reaffirming the Association's commitment to promoting education and supporting the aspirations of young members.
Chief guest Shalet Pinto, chairperson of Karnataka Eco Tourism, delivered an inspiring address, urging members to uphold the values of commitment, integrity and social responsibility. Spiritual Director and president of the function, Fr Valerian D'Souza reflected on the Association's remarkable journey and emphasised the enduring values of faith, unity, service and compassion that have guided it through the years.
The meeting also witnessed the election of the new executive committee for the diamond jubilee year. The newly elected office-bearers are Dr John Edward D'Souza as president, Edward Alwyn Fernandes as vice president, Canute J Pinto as secretary, James J Madtha as joint secretary, and Fr Valerian D'Souza as spiritual director and treasurer.
Secretary-elect Canute J Pinto proposed the vote of thanks, expressing sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration through their wholehearted support and participation. The programme was compered by Nigel Pereira, whose professional anchoring ensured its smooth and graceful conduct.
Established in 1967, the St Christopher Drivers and Owners Association was founded with the objective of supporting drivers, vehicle owners and their families through fellowship, mutual assistance and community service. Over the years, it has grown into a vibrant organisation dedicated to the welfare of its members while actively promoting educational, social and charitable initiatives.
One of the Association's significant service initiatives is the management of a hostel that provides accommodation and support to students from economically weaker sections of the community, reflecting its enduring commitment to social welfare and empowerment.
As the Association enters its diamond jubilee year, it continues to uphold the ideals of service, unity and compassion envisioned by its founders. The celebrations served as a fitting tribute to its rich legacy and reaffirmed its commitment to serving the community with dedication and purpose for generations to come.