Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 5: Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh – Derebail unit, in association with the Commission for Ecology and Environment of Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail, successfully organised a unique and meaningful programme to commemorate World Environment Day and Vanamahotsava. The event was held on the church premises immediately after the Holy Mass and witnessed an overwhelming response from the parishioners.
As part of the celebrations, members of the Catholic Sabha and the Commission for Ecology and Environment distributed lucky draw coupons to the faithful before the holy Mass. Immediately after the conclusion of the Mass, the programme commenced with the gathering of parishioners in the church premises.
The programme also reflected the vision of the Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh – Derebail unit in introducing innovative and meaningful initiatives for the parish community. Under the dynamic leadership of its dedicated team of office bearers, the Catholic Sabha has been consistently striving to organise unique programmes that foster faith, social responsibility, environmental awareness, and community participation. These initiatives not only strengthen the bond among parishioners but also encourage active involvement in causes that contribute to the well-being of society and the protection of God's creation.
The Vanamahotsava celebration was yet another successful example of this commitment.
The programme was jointly convened by Jeevan Miranda, convenor representing the Catholic Sabha Derebail unit, and Remy Alvares, convenor representing the Commission for ecology and environment. Remy Alvares also efficiently compered the programme, ensuring its smooth and lively conduct.
A significant highlight of the event was the ceremonial planting of a Hibiscus sapling, symbolising the commitment of the parish community towards environmental conservation, ecological responsibility, and the promotion of a greener future. The tree-planting ceremony served as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect and preserve nature for future generations.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Fr Joseph Martis, parish priest; Fr Steevan Nelson Peris, assistant parish priest; Nelson Castelino, president of Catholic Sabha Derebail unit; Shaila Noronha, secretary of the Catholic Sabha; Pramila Furtado, Sanyojak of the Parish Commissions; along with the programme convenors, Jeevan Miranda and Remy Alvares.
Following the planting of the sapling, prizes were distributed to the winners of the Best Plant Maintenance Competition. This competition had been announced three years ago when saplings were distributed among parishioners with the objective of encouraging long-term care and maintenance of plants. Participants who had nurtured their plants with dedication over the past three years were recognised and rewarded for their commitment to environmental stewardship.
A total of six cash prizes were awarded, comprising first prize, second prize, third prize, and three consolation prizes. The initiative was highly appreciated as it encouraged sustained participation in environmental conservation and highlighted the importance of caring for nature beyond a single day of celebration.
The programme then moved to the much-awaited lucky draw, which generated great excitement among the gathered faithful. Fr Joseph Martis, parish priest, personally drew the counterfoils and announced the names of the ten lucky winners. Instead of conventional gifts, each winner received fruit-bearing and flowering plants, reinforcing the programme's eco-friendly theme and inspiring families to contribute towards a greener environment by planting and nurturing trees.
The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of around 430 parishioners, making it one of the most well-attended environmental initiatives organised by the parish. Despite the large gathering, the entire programme was conducted in a well-organised and disciplined manner and concluded successfully within 25 minutes.
The initiative beautifully reflected the commitment of the Catholic Sabha Derebail unit and the Commission for Ecology and Environment towards creating environmental awareness and promoting sustainable living. Through symbolic tree planting, recognition of responsible plant caretakers, and the distribution of fruit and flowering saplings, the organisers effectively conveyed the message that protecting nature is a shared responsibility of every individual.
The programme concluded with heartfelt gratitude to the parish priest, assistant parish priest, parishioners, volunteers, members of the Catholic Sabha, and the Commission for Ecology and Environment for their wholehearted support and participation. Their collective efforts made the celebration a memorable and impactful occasion, reaffirming the parish's dedication to caring for god's creation and building a greener, healthier future for generations to come.