Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 21: Prison Ministry India Mangaluru unit on occasion of its 20th anniversary of its service offered a thanksgiving Mass at Rosario Cathedral.

Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru diocese was the main celebrant. In sermon, the bishop said, “Prayer is the main thing we can do for prison inmates. A person will not be a criminal from his birth. It is because of social issues they become criminals.”

Fr Prakash D’Cunha, director of Prison Ministry India Mangaluru unit welcomed the gathering. Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, district jail superintendent Chandan Patil, Prison Ministry Karnataka state coordinator Fr Benny, Prison Ministry Karnataka secretary Sr Therese, Dr Roland Fernandes, member, KPSC, and Fr J B Crasta, parish priest, Rosario Cathedral, were present on dais.

Chief guest Chandan Patil said, “People work for rewards but prison ministry people work without rewards and expectations. Many NGOs come to jail but no one works like prison ministry people do. They have helped in deployment of mental health of prisoners as well.

The bishop honored the beneficiaries who helped in the mission.

Addressing the gathering, the bishop said, “Family is mainly affected when a person is in jail. We have to be the voice for the voiceless.” He thanked all the sponso's and well wishers for their contribution and support.

Dr Tressie Menzes compered the programme.

Jerome Lobo rendered the vote of thanks.