Daijiworld Media Network - Hassan (SP)

Hassan, Sep 23: State president of the Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations (FKCA), Ronald Colaco, inaugurated the Belur unit of FKCA on Sunday September 21, at 11.30 am. Belur church priest, Fr Cyril Menezes, blessed the premises. A huge congregation of Christian community held later, was presided by Philip Saldanha, president of FKCA Belur unit. FKCA general secretary Michael Baptist and state convener, Denis D'Silva participated as chief guests.

Belur church priest, Fr Cyril Menezes, Arehally church priest Fr Vijay Kumar, Fatimapura church priest Fr Daniel D'Souza, pastors Joseph, Suresh Jacob, Mani and Suresh who participated as honorary guests, were at the dais.

Hassan Christian Association president Thomas, FKCA Sakleshpura unit president Richard Lobo and Chikmagalur unit president Andrew D'Souza were at the dais.

In his inaugural address, Ronald Colaco dwelt on the contributions made by the Christian society to the country and reminded that these contributions were backed by the unstinted hard work put in by the Christian priests and religious sisters. "Because of the fact that our brethren worked hard in the past, Christianity has been able to gain a place of eminence in the country. We should never forget this fact," he exhorted. He requested the people belonging to all the religions including Muslims, Hindus and Christians, to co-exist with harmony like the children of 'Bharat Mata'. He stressed that the Christians have not been facing any problems from the Hindus, and that the community has always lived with friendship and mutual trust with the Hindus. "Only a handful of people create trouble and attack our churches and institutions. We need to fight against this small crowd. For the mistake committed by a few, we should not harbour enmity with the entire community. We should continue to strengthen our bond with our Hindu brethrens further," he advised.

FKCA state convener Denis D'Silva, Arehally church priest Fr Vijay Kumar, Fatimapura church priest Fr Daniel D'Souza and pastor Joseph addressed the gathering.

Joseph Rebello welcomed. Rajeshwari proposed vote of thanks. John Crasta presented a report on various programmes taken up by the Federation. Students of Fatima High School presented a programme of entertainment.