Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 18: The silver jubilee celebration of Kripa Foundation was held at Fathima Retreat House on Sunday, March 17.
Rama Rao, ACP, South sub division, was the chief guest, Sr Jyothi, former superior general of Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany was the guest of honour. She inaugurated the programme by lightning the lamp. In her inaugural message, she highlighted the healing mission of Jesus Christ. She congratulated the yeomen services of Kripa Foundation in the lives of alcoholic dependants and instilling new life in them. “We should be blessing in the lives of others,” she said.
Rama Rao in his speech applauded the services of Kripa Foundation.”The rampant crime of drug peddling in Mangalore was curbed due to the systematic work done by the team. He highlighted the contribution of Mother Teresa to the society. Similarly as of now, Kripa Foundation has 69 branches in India,” he said. He wished that it should extend further its services to the society.
Another chief guest Fr Charles Menezes once again gave a clarion call to reach out to the needy people in the society. He wished them well for their future endeavours. Praveen Chandra Alva, local corporator, highlighted the 25 years of selfless service of Kripa Foundation to the alcoholic dependant families. He appreciated the contribution of Christian institutes to the society. “The disciplinary and compassionate approach has brought a name to this area,” he said.
Fr Joel H Pereira, the founder trustee and the president of the day's programme in his presidential address spoke about the inspiration he got from Mother Teresa. “Jesus Christ is the motivating force behind this service. Kripa foundation has spread to 44 countries and recently to China,” he said. The Padmashri Award winner acknowledged that the honour recieved from him belongs to his co-helpers in this venture. Thirty yoga mats costing Rs 1000 each will be distributed on the occasion, he said. “Our bodies are the temple of God. So preserve our identity. The afflicted and affected will be a powerful presence in the society. Together we affirm to build a new society,” he said. He thanked Paul Dsouza, manager of Kripa Foundation Mangaluru for effectively carrying the mission in the city. Paul Dsouza handed on the mementos to the guests on the dais and thanked the participants.
Sushma, lecturer of M V Shetty College anchored the programme. Shwetha, staff of Kripa Foundation welcomed the guests and the gathering. Nearly 150 people were present for the programme.
After the programme, success stories were narrated by some of the beneficiaries.