Mangalore Diocese Catechism day and felicitation to the toppers in Catechism exam was organized by Mangala Jyothi at Pastoral Institute Shanthikiran Bajjodi on Sunday 8 March.
The programme began with solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Most Rev Dr Aloysius Paul D Souza the Bishop of Mangalore. Fr Pius OCD the Director of Rishivana in his homily highlighted the need of Church and the relevance of catechism in the life of a Christian.
During the formal programme held after the Mass, Fr Vijay Machado the Director of Mangala Jyothi welcomed the gathering announced the results of the exam, appreciated the efforts of teachers and thanked the sponsors of the programme.
Topers in diocesan catechism exam were awarded by the Bishop with the mementos and certificates. In his presidential address Bishop said, Jesus came to this world and showed the way to heaven through the Church. The Church has the responsibility to nurture the faith of the faithful .He requested the parents to encourage children to go the catechism class and also inspire them to choose the consecrated life.
Mr Cyril and his wife Stella D Souza shared about their life in the family, their dealings with children, and their responsibilities toward children especially of spiritual life. Family is the basic unit of the church we need to build and nurture faith in the family they said.
Sr Cecilia Mendonca BS in her chief guest address spoke about the relevance of consecrated life and encouraged children to yield to the voice of God and commit oneself to the service of God.
Mr. George D Souza who served Mangala Jyothi for 21 years now taken VRS and winners of essay writing competition organized for teachers were felicitated by the Bishop. A DVD Jevitacho Undo was released and Mr Vinod Gangoli was felicitated at the occasion.
Most Rev Dr A.P D Souza the Bishop of Mangalore, Fr. Victor Machado Director Pastoral Institute, Fr Pius D Souza OCD Director of Rishivana, Mr Cyril and Stella D Souza, Sr Cicilia Mendonca BS and Fr Vijay Machado Director Mangala Jyothi were present on the dais.
