Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 9: Spandana Trust Infant Mary’s convent, Jeppu along with 230 women from self help groups, celebrated its annual day and Christmas celebration jointly on December 8.
The programme was presided over by the bishop of Mangaluru Diocese, Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha. He was given a warm welcome with band and traditional Aarathi by the self help group women.
In his presidential address, the bishop pointed out that Spandana Trust is celebrating its annual day along with Christmas. However, the Trust is helping society not only during Christmas but throughout the year. “Spandana Trust has been providing assistance, building up the community, irrespective of religion, caste and colour,” he said praising their beautiful work for the people in and around Mangaluru for many years.
“Whatever is done in the name of Jesus, celebrates the birth of Jesus. If Christ was not born there would not have been any Christian institutions today. Therefore, when we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that birth of Jesus was a humble beginning of service to the humanity; it is continued to day by the Christians through various services to the humanity,” he said.
The chief guest Sr Marcelline Braggs, in her speech said woman provide great strength and are selfless in nature. She appreciated the work done by the Trust to the society and especially for the women who are from marginalized sections and are neglected.
Chitharanjan Bolar, the guest of honour said that the Trust is working very hard to ensure that human rights are not violated for people belonging to marginalized groups. “The Trust is not only working for the welfare of the women but also works for the children, youth, sick and aged and strives to ensure government facilities reach them,” he said.
Top scorers of SSLC and college were felicitated. Prizes were distributed to winners in the competitions held for SHG women.
Cultural and entertainment programmes by the SHG women and children were performed. The administrator Sr Helen Fernandes welcomed the gathering. Social worker Theertha K S read out the report of the activities of the year 2018. The coordinator Victor Vas proposed vote of thanks. Pramila Mendonca and Hilda Fernandes compered the programme. About 3,500 people were present for the occasion.