Mangalore Diocese News

Report - Reevina Fernandes
Photography - Neil Fernandes

Mangaluru, June 27 : The environment plays a vital role in our lives, not just by supporting us but by offering natural remedies that are often overlooked. Among its many gifts, medicinal plants stand out as powerful healers. However, due to lack of awareness, their value is slowly being forgotten. It is important that we recognize and educate ourselves and others about these natural resources to ensure they are preserved and appreciated by all generations.

In observance of Environment Awareness , The Angelore Youth Movement (AYM) organized a special talk on “Medicinal Plants” on 22nd June 2025 at the Guardian Angel Church ,Angelore Golden Jubilee Hall, beginning at 8:30 AM. The event carried the meaningful tagline: "Nature is our doctor; let us pass its value to others".

The session began at 8:30 AM with the host of the day, Ms. Nishal Vas, introducing the purpose of the gathering. She then invited the dignitaries to the dais, led by AYM President Ms. Richael Castelino. Gracing the occasion were, Chief Guest and speaker Mr. M. Dinesh Nayak, Parish Vicar Rev. Fr. Fredrick Monteiro, Socius Priest Rev. Fr. Naveen Pinto, Parish Council Head Vice President Mr. Paul Rodrigues, Secretary Mrs Lolina D’Souza, and 21 Pastoral Commission Ayog Secretary Ms. Renita Menezes.

The AYM members then led a melodious prayer song, invoking the Lord’s blessings. AYM President Ms. Richael Castelino delivered the welcome speech, warmly addressing all present. This was followed by a symbolic green welcome to the chief guest, Mr. Dinesh Nayak. One of the key highlights of the event was the green inauguration, where three medicinal plants Tulsi, Neem, and Aloe vera were planted by Parishioners from three different age groups, joined by the dignitaries And The AYM Animators Mr Robin Vas And Mrs Sylvia Dsouza. This act represented the importance of environmental responsibility across all generations. Rev. Fr. Fredrick Monteiro then gave his message, emphasizing the significance of the occasion and encouraging active awareness among the parishioners.

After a short breakfast break, Mr. Rayan Lobo introduced the day’s speaker, Mr. M. Dinesh Nayak, President of (Sasyashyamala Vittal) , and a dedicated environmentalist known for his tree planting initiatives with the Karnataka Forest Department. Mr. Nayak then Captivated the Audience By beginning his session by showcasing samples of unique medicinal plants, allowing the audience to observe and even taste them. He used slides to explain their properties and health benefits, speaking about plants like Bili Indisoppu (Pashanabedha), Garlic Vine, Hydrocotyle Asiatica, Madunashini, Nagasampige, Sandhuballi, and many more. The session was interactive, with enthusiastic participation from people of all ages, who asked questions and engaged deeply with the topic.

As a token of appreciation, Mr. Dinesh was presented with a memento by AYM. AYM Secretary Ms. Reevina Fernandes then delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone involved in making the event a success. The program concluded with an oath-taking ceremony led by Ms. Rhea Dsouza where parishioners pledged their commitment to protecting nature. Finally, host Ms. Nishal Vas brought the event to a close. As a meaningful gesture, all attendees were given water-soluble thank-you cards embedded with mixed seeds, encouraging them to take a step toward greener living.