MANGALURU, DEC 23 : The Director and Staff of CODP, ISD and RUSEMP set aside their office and field work and came together to celebrate Christmas – the birth of Christ Child Jesus on December 23, 2021 at CODP, Mangalore. They shared the joy of Christmas by slicing the cake and wishing each other ‘Happy Christmas.’
A day’s programme was organised in Mother Theresa hall, ISD for the well-wishers, neighbours and all the staff of CODP-ISD-RUSEMP. The participants were led into prayer by Mrs Rita and team. This was followed by Carols sung by CODP staff.
Ms Lenet Gonsalves, the Compeer of the day then welcomed to the dais, the Chief Guest Mrs Shakila Kava, Local Corporator of Mangaluru City Corporation; Rev. Fr Francis Xavier Gomes, Retired Principal of St Philomena College Puttur; Rev. Fr Vincent D’Souza, Director of CODP; Rev. Fr Anil Ivan Fernandes, Director of Canara Communication Centre, Diocese of Mangalore and Mrs Lavina Dhanthi, Secretary of Dakshina Kannada Sahajeevana Okkoota.
Rev. Fr Vincent D Souza welcomed the dignitaries, guests and 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.
Rev. Gomes, in his speech said that the meaning of Christmas is Peace, love, humaneness and serving the needy people of our society. He said that God sent his only begotten son Jesus Christ into this world to save us from sins so that we can enter the kingdom of heaven. Only when we live in peace, God gets glory.
Mrs Shakila Kava wished all the participants a Happy Christmas and Happy New Year 2021. Christmas is a season of Love, Joy and Peace. She said in her speech that in the name of CODP the words “Peace and Development” are mentioned. She further said that only if there is peace in our society we can all live in harmony and progress.
Rev Fr Vincent D Souza distributed the Christmas gifts to all the participants.
During this program, Rev. Fr Anil Fernandes was felicitated for securing 1st rank in MA Journalism and Mass Communication at St Aloysius College, (Autonomous) Mangalore.
Ms Lenet Gonsalves, program manager of CODP compered the programme. A short Christmas skit was played and Santa Claus entertained the gathering.
The Christmas get-together came to a close with sharing of Kuswar.
Mrs Revathi, Animator of CODP gave vote of thanks. A sumptuous meal was served at the end.
