Mangalore Diocese News

By Vinod T Dsouza

Mangaluru, July 9 : The Men’s Jubilee Celebration was joyfully held on 6th July 2025 at St. Sebastian Church, Bendur. The event began with a special Rosary at 4:30 PM, offered for the intentions and well-being of all men in the parish. This was followed by the Holy Mass at 5:00 PM, celebrated by the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza. In his homily, Fr. Walter emphasized the importance of men’s roles in the family, Church, and society, encouraging them to lead with faith, commitment, and values. The liturgy and choir were led entirely by men, making the Eucharistic celebration special and meaningful.

The cultural celebration began at 6:15 PM in the Centenary Auditorium, in the presence of: Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza, Vicar, Rev. Fr. Vivek Pinto and Rev. Fr. Osmond D’Souza, Assistant Parish Priests, Rev. Fr. Arun Lobo, Principal of Padua college, Mr. Vinod D’Souza Vice President PPC, Mrs. Patsy Britto Secretary, Mr. Deepak D’Souza all Commission Convenor, Mr. J R Lobo, Former MLA, Dr. Edward Nazareth.

The program was compèred by Mr. Allwyn D’Souza, who led the evening with great enthusiasm and humour. The event began with prayer and blessings by Rev. Fr. Osmond D’Souza, followed by a warm welcome speech by Mr. Deepak D’Souza. The celebration was inaugurated by lighting the lamp by the dignitaries.

A special felicitation ceremony was held to honour six distinguished parishioners for their notable achievements and contributions:

1. Mr. Lawrence Alvares – Konkani writer
2. Mr. Clifford D’Souza – Singer writer and Music composer
3. Commodore Allan Quadros – Indian Navy
4. Commander G. P. Mascarenhas (Retd.) – Indian Navy
5. Dr. Edward Nazareth – Renowned Konkani writer and health contributor
6. Mr. Eddie Sequeira – Kala Puraskar awardee from MCA Qatar

Following the honouring, Dr. Edward Nazareth delivered an insightful session on men’s health, focusing on preventive care and wellness tips for men over 40 and 60.

A Best Traditional Dress competition was held, with enthusiastic participation. The evening featured group songs, dances, and a skit, all presented by men’s teams and appreciated by the audience.

Prizes were distributed to winners of various sports and fun games conducted in the previous weeks, including Volleyball, Dodge Ball, and other team games and fun challenges organized as part of the Men’s Jubilee.

The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Nelson Monteiro, followed by blessing of the meal by Rev. Fr. Vivek Pinto, and a fellowship dinner.

It was a day filled with fellowship, fun, and faith, leaving behind lasting memories and a renewed spirit of unity among the men of the parish.