Fr. Thomas Misquith, Karwar
BHATKAL, Jan 27: The fact that a written memorandum is submitted, addressed to the President of India, in a manner of challenging the supreme authority of the Nation, threatening to attack the Churches is detrimental to the democratic order, said Bishop Derek Fernandes, the Bishop of Karwar (Uttara Kannada district).
He was speaking to the press reporters on the occasion of his visit yesterday to Ternamakki and Mundalli in Bhatkal Taluk where attempts were made to destroy a Cross (erected on a hill) and the grotto of Mother Mary. It is a tragedy that the things connected with divinity are shockingly attacked, he said, and added that today's youth are in need of proper guidance and direction. He said that the civilized society was expressing its shock at the activities of the anti-social elements, and he was worried about the future of the misled youth who were getting involved in destructive activities not knowing that there is only one God. The bishop added that he has discussed the matter with the Deputy Commissioner and the Additional Superintendent of Police, Karwar and he was satisfied with the actions taken by the police so far. More than the punishment, our first priority should be the change of heart of those who engage themselves in destructive activities, the bishop explained.
Fr. Alphonse Moras (Parish Priest of Lourdes Church, Bhatkal), Mr. Victor Gomes, Advocate and Municipal Council Member of Bhatkal etc. were present on the occasion of the bishop's press meet.