Report: Nanu Marol
Dubai, Nov 17: “New diocese of Udupi is moving in right direction within 6 years of its existence to became number 1 diocese in nation which is the dream vision of our bishop Dr Jerald Isaac Lobo, by not by competing or letting others down, but by utilizing the resources available within the diocese, empowering the youth, women and the underprivileged,” said vicar general of Udupi diocese Msgr Baptist Menezes during his recent trip to UAE along with Fr Alban D’Souza.
They were addressing in a gathering of leaders of various associations and invitees at Winny’s recently.
Nanu Marol Thottam welcomed both the priests to the dais. Simon D Mello of Dubai Leisure Holidays LLC presented a floral bouquet to Msgr Baptist Menezes and Saby D’Souza Moodubelle presented the floral bouquet to Fr Alban D’Souza. Programme began with prayer by Fr Alban D’Souza.
In his address Msgr Baptist Menezes informed audience by recalling the words of Dr Jerald Isaac Lobo during his maiden trip to UAE. “The pastoral plan 2025 prepared by the people of our own diocese, not by bishop, me or any clergy. We want to do what the laity of Udupi diocese wants to do, because diocese belongs to the laity. Honesty, integrity, and transparency will take any institution to the next level. Our job is to enhance spirituality among people and we must focus more on spirituality, and imbibe leadership and development qualities among the youth and the women. AS a result of this, the bishop has created 18 Commissions and these are giving tremendous results,”
“Through these commissions Diocese is doing wonders. It can able to reach every Individual laity through these commissions,” Msgr added.
Msgr Baptist Menezes praised the women commission. He explained how women commission succeeded in getting higher government grant. He also proudly announced that women commission is all set to open its own cooperative bank.
Msgr made it clear that the purpose of visit is not collection but to explain the developments happened Udupi diocese. He also explained all the development activities.
He presented report of 18 commissions for the year 2017 with facts and figures. “Pastoral Centre which had to be built in the original place has not been done yet due to various reasons. Cornelio brothers from Kallianpur parish have donated the land for this project. All the legal formalities have been completed and the work will start soon. Home for the retired priests and minor seminary are the priority projects and Bishop’s House is last in the list,” he informed.
He also explained about the funds which are required to complete all the projects. “Our bishop strongly believes that Almighty will show the way to complete all projects with help of donors,” he said.
Msgr Baptist Menezes answered all the queries raised by the audience present.
Community leader Dayan D Souza Mukamar proposed vote of thanks. In his note he informed that it is our primary duty to support the cause of Udupi diocese. He admired priests like Msgr Baptist who are working tirelessly in spite of their health issues towards the development of Udupi diocese.
Godwin D’Souza Boliye compered this programme.