From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore
Bangalore, May 6: A group of eminent persons and Federation of Karnataka Catholic and Christian Associations have warmly welcomed the appointment of a prominent Jesuit priest, Rev Fr Francis Serrao, as the Bishop of Shimoga, who will be formally consecrated in Shimoga on Wednesday.
The FKCCA President T J Abraham appreciated the appointment of a Jesuit priest, who had held key positions and was Provincial of the Society of Jesus in Karnataka, and said it was a recognition to the Jesuits for their laudable service to society, especially the underprivileged sections, in the field of education and social service.
Prof Vijayaraghavan, Head of the Kannada Department of St Joseph’s College of Arts and Science, said Fr Francis Serrao as Provincial of Jesuits in the State had given constant care and attention to Kannada and ensured that the official language of the State got an effective and prominent place in the Jesuit institutions institutions in literary and cultural spheres.
Joseph Wilson Lobo, Director International Relations of Christ University, said the Jesuits are known for their contribution in the field of education and people from all walks of life have benefited from it and it was a matter of pride to all that a Jesuit has been chosen to be the Bishop.
Elisha Andrews said the the vision and mission of Fr Francis Serrao was evident in his teaching people to remember to give back to society what is received from God in the the form of education and good health.
Anil Pinto, Registrar of Christ University, said the contributions of the Jesuits has no comparison and the appointment of a Jesuit priest to head the Shimoga Diocese was the apt decision, though he felt a bit late.
Aida D'Cunha, Chairperson of Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations (FKCA), said Fr Francis Serrao was an erudite scholar in Kannada and many other languages and his appointment as Bishop of Shimoga was a great honour to Kannadigas and people of the entire State.
FKCCA President Abraham announced that a grand felicitation function would be organized in the near future in Bangalore in collaboration with all like-minded organizations, including the Alumni Associations of Jesuit institutions in Bangalore soon.