Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 13: The Catholic Sabha Derebail unit organised a unique fellowship programme titled ‘Catholic Sabheche Kutma Sangi Monthi Fest Acharan’, bringing together members of the Catholic Sabha, Ward Gurkars and the parish community in a spirit of unity, faith and fellowship.

The programme was organised for the first time with the aim of strengthening the bond among members and celebrating the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary as one Catholic Sabha family.

The programme commenced with a prayer led by Edward Coelho, convenor of the event, followed by the traditional showering of flowers to Infant Mary, symbolising love, devotion and gratitude towards the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Welcoming the gathering, Nelson Castelino, president of Catholic Sabha Derebail Unit, highlighted the uniqueness of the initiative. He observed that while members meet regularly for monthly meetings and come together annually for outings and entertainment, this programme provided an opportunity for the entire Catholic Sabha family to come together in a spirit of faith, fellowship and togetherness. He stressed that such initiatives help build stronger relationships and create a deeper bond among members.

Dr Joseph Martis, spiritual director of Catholic Sabha and parish priest of Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail, conveyed his wishes and blessings though he was not in town and could not attend.

Fr Steevan Nelson Peris, associate parish priest, spoke on the significance of the nativity feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, explaining its importance, history and the tradition behind the celebration in his keynote address.

Denzil Fernandes, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council, conveyed his best wishes to the Catholic Sabha Derebail unit and appreciated the initiative, wishing that such programmes should be organised more often in the church.

Vilma Monteiro, secretary of Catholic Sabha Mangaluru Pradesh and immediate past president of Catholic Sabha Derebail unit, was also present on the occasion in the absence of the Diocesan president.

The chief guest, Santosh D’Costa, president of Catholic Sabha City Varado, appreciated the activities of the Derebail unit and commended the team for organising meaningful programmes. He encouraged greater participation of youth in Catholic Sabha and similar community organisations. He particularly appreciated the efficiency and teamwork of the Derebail Unit and described their activities as being conducted by a strong and dedicated team.

Present on the dais were Fr Steevan Nelson Peris, assistant parish priest of Derebail Church; Santosh D’Costa, president of Catholic Sabha City Varado; Nelson Castelino, president of Catholic Sabha Derebail unit; Mable Rodrigues, joint secretary; Edward Coelho, convenor of the programme; Denzil Fernandes, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council; Clotilda D’Souza, secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; Pramila Furtado, Sanyojak of the Commissions; and Vilma Monteiro, secretary of Catholic Sabha Mangaluru Pradesh.

Dr Alfreeda Pinto compered the programme with grace and coordination, adding warmth and flow to the celebration. Mable Rodrigues, joint secretary of Catholic Sabha Derebail Unit, proposed the vote of thanks.

Special appreciation was expressed for Edward Coelho, convenor, whose dedication, planning and efforts played a pivotal role in making the programme a success. Shaila Noronha, secretary of Catholic Sabha Derebail unit, also played a vital role in the organisation, although she was unable to attend the programme.

The celebration brought together members in a joyful atmosphere of prayer, tradition and fellowship. The initiative received appreciation from all present and was widely welcomed as a meaningful effort to bring the Catholic Sabha family closer together while keeping alive the rich traditions associated with the Nativity of Mamma Mary.

The programme concluded with Novem Jevche followed by a delicious dinner.