Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Mangalore, Jun 1, 2010 : Bishop of Mangalore, Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, inaugurated the new library building of Roshni Nilaya Institute of Social Service in the city on Monday May 31. After blessing the premises, he also led Eucharistic celebrations, along with other priests at around 4 pm.

The programme on the dais began at 5.30 pm with invocation, followed by rendering of prayer, dance and song, respectively. Thereafter, an audio-visual presentation about the college, comprising the journey of Roshni Nilaya through 50 years of its existence, eminent faculty it had, social work initiatives undertaken by the college, Aids Awareness programme undertaken by it among others, was made to the audience.

Noemia D’Souza, president, Institute of Social Service, delivered the welcome address. Dr Phelomena D’Souza, provincial of the institute, delivered the provincial message. She noted that the students of the institute have got involved with social work even in places that are located far away. “They also worked to support by lending their hands of service to the distressed families of May 22 air crash at the local airport,” she added.

Dr Olinda Pereira, the first and former principal of the institute, said that she feels proud and thankful for the opportunity given by the Lord to her to participate in the golden jubilee celebrations of the institute. On this occasion, a souvenir of the institute, authored by Dr Olinda Pereira, was released by Bishop, Dr Alloysius Paul D’Souza. Books authored by Dr Mayya and Dr L N Bhat were also released on this occasion.

Former MP, Vinay Kumar Sorake, who happens to be an ex-student of the college, participated as the chief guest of the programme. “This college taught me how to serve my people, and what is necessary to achieve the development of the nation. I rose to this position of eminence only because of the education and guidance provided by this institution,” he said.

In his presidential address, Bishop, Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, noted that knowledge leads people from darkness towards light, and that knowledge is the light that enlightens everyone. He said that library is a place where people come to gain knowledge, not only through articles and news, but are through numerous stories which educate the readers about ideals and meaning of life, besides arming them with the capability to discriminate between good and bad, light and darkness. He advised the students to make use of the library by reading different books, and enrich their understanding of life and world, and grow to be responsible citizens with the blessings of the God.

Dr Jacinta D’Souza, principal of the School of Social Work, proposed vote of thanks. Thereafter, the students of the institute presented a cultural interlude.