Pics: Demetries D'Souza, Decla Studio/Anush Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Dec 9: The annual cultural event ‘Christmas Celebration 2018’ of Konkan Overseas Returnees Welfare Association (KORWA) was held at St Sebastian Platinum Jubilee Hall, Bendore on Saturday, December 8.
The event was specially dedicated to 700 unprivileged children studying in schools in and around Mangaluru.
Fr Vincent Francis Monteiro, parish priest, Bendoor Parish inaugurated the event by cutting the Christmas cake. Jessy Pinto, president, KORWA, Louis Lobo, convener, Archi Menezes, Elias Sanctis, and Gretta Gomes were present on the dais.
In his inaugural speech Fr Vincent said, "Christmas is festival of joy and happiness and imparts a message to humanity. It reminds us how almighty showed his love on this universe. Jesus Christ’s birth symbolizes love towards poor, underprivileged and destitute. So the celebration of Christmas should also bring cheer to the poor. But nowadays, celebration of birth of Christ is limited to only enjoyment and entertainment. Somewhere we have forgotten the real message of Christmas. But the members of KORWA thought differently and they included the real message of Christmas in their event. Inviting 700 underprivileged students, they made their annual Christmas celebration more meaningful. I appreciate all members of the association for organising the unique event. I congratulate all the children who are
gathered here and going to perform on stage."
In her welcome speech, Jessy Pinto said, “KORWA with this event has kept the tradition started seven years ago, alive. To bring 700 underprivileged children under one roof is not an easy job. But a spirit of collectiveness made this possible. Of course it’s a Christmas celebration so we tried to include all type of joy and enjoyment in this event. Many helped us distribute gifts for children. The teachers of the schools and boarding houses have also associated with us and we are grateful to them. We think this get-together with children will help us understand the real meaning of birth of Jesus Christ."
Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru, J R Lobo, former MLA also graced the event and wished the children and organisers.
After the inaugural ceremony a three hour entertainment programme, including dance and music was performed by the children. Every child received a Christmas gift with wonderful Christmas message.
Gretta Gomes rendered the vote of thanks. Angeline D Souza compered the event.