Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 13: The Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) of St. Sebastian Church, Bendur, celebrated its 72nd Annual Day with devotion and joy on November 11. The celebration began with a solemn thanksgiving mass, presided over by Fr Walter D’Souza, parish priest and spiritual director, and concelebrated by Fr Prakash Lobo, Fr Alban D’Souza and Fr Ozmond D’Souza.
In his homily, Fr Prakash Lobo reflected on the humble and Christ-centered spirituality of St Francis of Assisi, highlighting the saint’s profound love for creation, his life of simplicity, and his deep commitment to Gospel values. He encouraged the SFO members to continue living these virtues in their families and parish community. SFO members actively participated in the liturgy through readings, choir, and offertory.
The cultural and formal program commenced in the Church Hall. The event opened with SFO members reverently singing 'The Canticle of the Creatures', the timeless hymn composed by St Francis of Assisi, which celebrates the beauty of God’s creation and marks its 800th anniversary this year. Members then offered flowers before the statue of St Francis of Assisi, symbolizing their devotion and commitment to his spiritual legacy.
Shanthi Menezes, president of the SFO (Bendur Unit), extended a warm welcome to all gathered. The dignitaries present included: Fr Walter D’Souza, vicar & spiritual director, Fr Prakash Lobo, Spiritual director, Karnataka OFS Province, Fr Alban D’Souza, Denis Fernandes, president, SFO Province, Cynthia Rosario, province secretary, Walter D’Souza, province vice president, Allwyn Monteiro province treasurer, Philomena D’Souza, province formator, Vinod D’Souza, vice president, parish pastoral council, Patsy Britto, secretary, parish pastoral council and Fr Vivek Pinto, assistant parish priest.
The annual report was presented by secretary Euna Rodrigues, who detailed the year’s activities: Monthly meetings held every Tuesday, Monthly Adoration on Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, charitable outreach visits to Karunalaya Ashram, Brahmavar, and Daya Foundation, Beltangady, serving children with physical disabilities and holy tours to the shrines of Mahe and Harihara.
In his message, Fr Prakash Lobo congratulated the members for their dedication and spiritual commitment. He appreciated the newly joined members and encouraged them to embrace the Franciscan way of life. He also spoke about the upcoming jubilee of the Order and inspired members to prepare spiritually.
Fr Walter D’Souza, in his message, expressed his joy in witnessing the unity and devotion of the SFO unit. He then sang a meaningful hymn written and composed by himself, which beautifully conveyed themes of service, simplicity, and faith.
The cultural programme featured a well-presented skit on the life of St Francis of Assisi, written and directed by Mary Lobo. Members also entertained the gathering with jokes, devotional songs, and short performances, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Flany D’Souza conducted engaging games, and prizes were awarded to the winners.
Flany D’Souza also proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the clergy, office-bearers, members, and all who contributed to the success of the celebration. Mary Lobo efficiently compered the programme. The event concluded with a delicious dinner, bringing the SFO family together in fellowship and joy.