Pics: Shivaprasad Vakwady
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Dec 30: Sarva Dharma jointly organized by Sauharda Samiti Udupi, Catholic Sabha Udupi Church unit and Mother of Sorrows Church celebrated Christmas at Mother of Sorrows Church here on Wednesday December 28.
Fr Fred Mascarenhas, parish priest, Mother of Sorrows Church presided over the programme.
Chief guest professor Cliffard Fernandes, St Joseph Seminary Mangaluru inaugurated the celebration by lighting the Christmas tree and stars.
Cliffard addressing the gathering said, "God became human to create human beings. There is need for communication and mutual interaction to develop strong bonds between people."
He also said, "The principles of Jesus Christ are very simple and easy, but tough to follow. Nowadays caste issues rather than thinking of ones religion are on the rise. People are ready to sacrifice their life for the sake of caste and religion. Caste is nothing but 'mode of worship', religion is a 'code of conduct' which is one for all.
"Human beings have forgotten how to be human. A man's good works remain forever. People should first learn how to be human, before they teach others. There should not be descrimination between communities. Many such Sauharda committees should be formed in the days to come. Only then harmony is possible."
Dr Nikethana, lecturer, Government First Grade College and Post Graduation Study Center, Thenkanidiyur said, "The wall of casteism must be eliminated. Human being is itself a great caste. Let everyone be human first."
Fr Ferdinand Gonsalvese, director, Catholic Sabha, Udupi region, Benedicta Fernandese, president, Catholic Sabha, Bonifus D'Souza, vice president, parish council and others were present.
Alfons D'Costa, convener, Sauharda Committee welcomed Zanab Akbar Ali, Jamat-E-Islami Hind, state advisory committee member delivered the vote of thanks.
Clara Mathias compered the programme.
A huge and attractive Christmas tree and well decorated Christmas crib were on display.
Children of different schools performed dances as part of the cultural programme.
Cake was distributed by the committee members for the gathering.