Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 15: Indian Catholic Youth Movement, St Francis Xavier’s Church Bejai unit, organized the 74th Independence Day at the church premises.

The president of the function, Fr Dr J B Saldanha (parish priest, SFX Church, Bejai) said in his presidential message, “We must work together to make India smart. For this struggle we all should take the inspiration from the freedom fighters of this country, because of them we are enjoying Independence Day.”

The chief guest of the programme P Sridhar, range forest officer said, “In the name of development we are losing a huge amount of forests which is a matter of concern. We need scientifically managed development.”

Saplings were distributed to the parishioners.

Saturday being the festivity of Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary, a holy mass was offered in the church, and special prayers were conducted for mother India.

To mark this occasion, ICYM conducted an online collage competition on the theme 'Indian Independence and Blessings of Mother Mary'. Prizes were distributed to the following:
Age group- 9 - 12 yrs:
1st place- Adline Fiona Lobo
2nd place- Payton Leon Monteiro
Age group– 13-16 yrs
1st place- Neha Rodrigues
2nd place- Brinelle Fernandes
Age group– 17-28 yrs
1st place- Leesha Rodrigues
2nd place- Nilisha D'sa

Fr Robert DSouza (principal LCS), Fr Pramod Crasta (assistant PP), deacon Vishwas Misquith SJ, Ashok Pinto (VP, SFX Church), Preethi Gomes (secretary, SFX Church), Shiny Lewis (president, ICYM) were among the dignitaries present.

ICYM members performed patriotic songs for the gathering.

Shiny Lewis welcomed the gathering, Wilma Martis proposed the vote of thanks, Beverly DSouza compered the programme.