Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 2: The 'Dress like a Saint' competition was held on Sunday, November 1 at the Church Portico of St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, as part of the All-Saints’ Day celebrations.
The programme commenced with a prayer song, invoking God's blessings upon the gathering. This was followed by a welcome address by Avitha Mascarenhas. The dignitaries and judges were felicitated with roses by the teachers. Teacher Meena Barboza introduced the judges to the gathering.
The programme was graced by Fr Basil Vas, rector and parish priest; Fr Lawrence Cutinha, assistant parish priest; John D'Silva, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council; Avitha Mascarenhas, All Commissions coordinator; and Lilia Pinto, Catechism coordinator.
The competition was judged by Fr Melroy D'Silva, OFM Cap, and Sr Manisha Priya Coelho, AC.
In his message, Fr Basil Vas appreciated the enthusiastic participation of the parishioners in dressing up as saints. He expressed his joy at witnessing children and adults portraying the lives of holy men and women and encouraged everyone to draw inspiration from their virtues and strive towards holiness in their daily lives. He wished all the participants good luck.
The competition featured five categories for students and one category for adults. A total of 31 students and 4 adults enthusiastically participated, portraying various saints and highlighting their inspiring lives, virtues and contributions to the Church.
All participants were awarded certificates of appreciation, while the winners securing first and second places in their respective categories received cash prizes along with certificates.
Addressing the gathering, Fr Melroy D'Silva, OFM Cap, delivered an inspiring message, reminding everyone that the competition was not merely about wearing saintly costumes but about understanding and practicing the virtues of the saints. He encouraged parents and teachers to help children learn about the lives of the saints and imbibe their values. He emphasised that dressing like saints should inspire everyone to live like Christ by following the examples of the saints.
The programme was smoothly compered by Lorina, while Sr Jovita, AC, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the judges, participants, organisers, teachers and everyone who contributed to the successful conduct of the event.
At the conclusion of the programme, Fr Lawrence Cutinha, expressed his sincere appreciation to all the participants, parents, teachers, organisers and coordinators for their wholehearted support, cooperation and dedicated efforts in making the event a meaningful and memorable celebration. He then concluded the programme with the recitation of the Angelus, followed by a thanksgiving hymn.
The programme served as a beautiful reminder that the saints are a source of inspiration to all of us. Their exemplary lives, unwavering faith and Christ-like virtues encourage us to follow their footsteps and strive towards holiness in our everyday lives.