News and pics from Jessie Rodrigues
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore (CN)

Bangalore, Dec 10: The 57th annual feast of St Mary’s Orphanage was celebrated under the able leadership of Fr John Anthony, on Monday December 8. The celebration began with the holy mass at 5.30 pm followed by cultural programmes by the boys of the orphanage. 

Archbishop Bernard Moras in his address appreciated the orphanage for its progress and said that this institution was one of pride as there are many boys who are picked up from the streets and given the best by Fr Anthony. He thanked all the benefactors of the institution and said that God would bless them for their kindness. 

Children are God’s gift to the Archdiocese, said Archbishop Moras. He also addressed the gathering in Kannada and advised the boys to be model citizens of the country.

Jude Felix, former goalkeeper, Indian hockey team, graced the occasion and gave the good news that a hockey academy would be started at the orphanage shortly to coach the boys. 

Fr Anthony thanked all the donors, benefactors, and well-wishers for their continued support and presented the annual report through a DVD power point presentation. It included a brief history of the orphanage and its daily activities. 

The boys performed a skit ‘The Prodigal Son’, which was interspersed with dances. The St Mary’s brass band played beautiful numbers pleasing everyone. Jude Thomas proposed the vote of thanks and Norbert Albert compered the programme which concluded with dinner.