Media Release

Mangaluru, May 9: St Dominic Church, Ashoknagar recently celebrated its 48th parish day anniversary with the Eucharistic celebration in the morning where the vicar general of the diocese, Fr Maxim Noronha was the main celebrant and Fr Aquin Noronha, parish priest and Fr Pratik Periera and Fr Vincent Thekkel were the con-celebrants. At the end of the mass the annual report of the parish was read by the parish council secretary Isac Furtado.

The formal programme commenced with the chief guest Pradeep D’souza, deputy director- Youth Empowerment & Sports who spoke on the need for young people getting into government jobs with the intention of serving the community and the country. Umpteen number of opportunities are available but we are not aware of these.

Fr Aquin Noronha, parish priest in his presidential address mentioned that St Dominic parish is a vibrant community and has grown extensively in the last 48 years and is all set to reach greater heights. He thanked Almighty God for the people of the parish.

A variety of programmes were performed by the children and elders. A very graceful prayer dance by the children set the mood for the evening. Young achievers of the parish who had won accolades at state and national level were honoured with a shawl, plaque and fruits which was very encouraging for the youth to put in their best and make their families and church proud of their achievements.

It was time for entertainment and fun where the children and youth of the parish performed lovely dances. A Konkani Mando which was very melodiously sung was appreciated by the people. A comedy skit on a school scene was enacted which got the gathering roaring with laughter and everyone enjoyed their performance. There was also another skit – 'Inspectoraso Autaar' which spoke about the clout police officials can have and how the truth can be twisted to one’s benefit. This was enacted by the experienced artistes who won the hearts of the people and entertained them with their dialogues.

The grand finale was the dinner cooked by the parishioners who got together in the morning to assist in grating, slicing, chopping of onions, garlic and meat.

An enjoyable day which witnessed the oneness, love and togetherness of the parish community and support of the Dominican priests made this day a pleasant and memorable one which will be cherished forever.

The stage programme was compered by Sujatha Mendonca and the cultural programme was compered by Chris Crasta and Jean Lobo.