Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 23: A Christmas get-together was held on December 23 at the CODP hall. Well-wishers, neighbours and staff of CODP-ISD-RUSEMP participated in the programme.
The programme commenced with a prayer song led by Lydia and team followed by carol singing by the staff of CODP. The chief guest was Shakila Kava, local corporator of Mangaluru City Corporation. The others present on the dais were Fr Dr John Fernandes (retired professor of St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu), Fr Vincent Monteiro (parish priest of Bendore church), Fr Oswald Monteiro (director of CODP), Fr Vincent D'Souza (designate director of CODP) and Sandya, branch manager of IOB, Padavu branch.
Fr Oswald Monteiro welcomed the dignitaries and the other participants. In his speech, he explained that the core of Christmas is happiness. This happiness is received as per the beatitudes that is simplicity, mercy, trust, service, forgiveness and by sharing our goodness and time.
Fr Dr John Fernandes, in his speech, said that the meaning of Christmas is peace, love, humanness and serving the needy of our society. He said that God sent his only begotten son, Jesus Christ into this world to save us from our sins so that we can enter the kingdom of Heaven. Only when we live in peace, God gets glory.
Shakila Kava wished all the participants a Happy Christmas and Happy New Year 2020. She said that in the name of CODP, the words 'Peace and Development' are mentioned. Also, only if there is peace in our society we can all live in harmony and progress.
Fr Vincent Monteiro, distributed Christmas gifts to all the participants. He said that Christmas is a festival of peace, forgiveness and sharing our happiness with each other and spreading love among our friends, relatives and neighbours. He then wished all the participants a very Merry Christmas and Happy New year 2020.
Dazmy Wilma Roche, office secretary of ISD compered the programme. A small Christmas skit was presented by CODP staff.
During the programme, Christmas cake was also cut by the dignitaries. There were members including guests on the dais and special invitees. The Christmas get-together came to a close with sharing of Kuswar (homemade Christmas sweets) and a fellowship meal.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Marceline D'Souza, an animator of CODP.