Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Dec 19: Udupi diocese hosted 'Christmas Snehakoota' (lunch together) with media friends, celebrating the joy of Christmas on Wednesday, December 19, at auditorium of the Bishop’s house.
Nagaraj Varkady, Udupi District Working Journalist Association, cut the cake on his birthday along the guests SP of Udupi district Laxman Nimbargi, additional DC Vidya Kumari and Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo.
The bishop of Udupi diocese Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo in his presidential address said, “Christmas itself says Christ and mass. Jesus Christ was born in the community of people. He was the only son of God. The true meaning of love is sacrifice. The Cross symbolizes the depth of love. He dedicated himself to the goodness of society. Love lies in sharing. Christmas means sharing love and it is our motto.”
“Let us try to use love and peace as tools. We had three priorities in the coming years, first is to build a strong nation. We have distributed more than 50,000 saplings to promoting the ‘Green Karnataka’ and implemented rain water harvesting,” he added.
“Secondly, we have conducted eye test camps for primary school children. Around 7,000 students were tested and 733 students were found with defects and we have sent them to other hospitals for obtaining further treatment. One should respect other’s religion. Through this let’s take nation to the developmental path. It’s is our responsibility of building a beautiful society. Let’s live harmonious life,” Dr Gerald added.
Superintendent of Police Laxman Nimbargi said, “This is first function I am attending to celebrate joy of the festival. Joy and happiness will become double when we share it with others. It is a very meaningful programme organised by Udupi diocese. All religions propose the message of peace. When the yearend comes, we will wish and pray to have peace, security, law and order everywhere.”
Additional DC Vidya Kumari said, “The life of Jesus itself is a message to all. He forgave those who hurt him, when he was on the cross. His messages are always relevant. Nothing can be gained through jealousy. At end, jealousy will destroy humans. Let us be human and respect each other.”
Bishop of Udupi handed over the charge of diocese PRO to Fr Royson Fernandes on the occasion.
Ganesh Prasad Pandelu general secretary of Journalist Association, Udupi was present.
Joseph Rebello, social worker (rainwater harvesting) and Lorel Pinto, a clay artist were honoured for their noble work.
Fr Royson Fernandes extended the welcome. Michael Rodrigues, Catholic media correspondent proposed vote of thanks.
Fr Chetan Lobo, Editor of Uzwad compered the programme.
Followed by the programme, bishop distributed the Christmas special sweets and served lunch for the media people.