News

Jan 12 : Christmas Night, a magical and joyous celebration, unfolds with the shimmering glow of lights and the sweet melodies of carols filling the air. Families and friends come together in festive spirit, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of holiday treats wafts through the air, as laughter and cheer resonate. It's a time for reflection, gratitude, and the sharing of love, marking the birth of hope and renewal. As stars twinkle above, Christmas Night encapsulates the enchanting spirit of togetherness and the timeless traditions that make this season truly special.

The Deva Matha Youth Movement (ICYM), Mogarnad Unit, in collaboration with the 'Ekthaar' unit of the Church Commission, hosted 'CHRISTMAS SAHAMILAN,' a Christmas Night event bringing together religious leaders, taluk and gram panchayat presidents, and members on December 25, 2023, at the Deva Matha Church Premises. The objective of the program was to convey the Christmas message and promote the idea of coexistence within the society.

The dignitaries for the program were Rev Fr Anil Canute Dmello, Director of DMYM and the Parish Priest of Mogarnad, Rev Fr Roshan Crasta, Administrator of Father Muller’s Homeopathic Medical College, Mr Ramakrishna H, Sub Inspector (SI), Bantwal Rural Police Station, Mr Ramananda Noojipady, Headmaster, Government English Medium High School, Daddalakadu, Mr Mohammad Shafeeq Kausari, Khatheeb, Badriya Jumma Masjid, Bithpade, Mr. Santosh Dsouza, Vice President of Parish Pastoral Council, Mr. Wilfred Lobo, Secretary of Parish Pastoral Council, Mrs. Emiliana D'cunha, Coordinator of all the commissions of the Church. Mrs Ida Crasta, Head of Commision for Women, Mr Leslie Dsilva Head of Commission for Ecumenism, Mrs Vinola Sequeira, head of Commission for Inter-religious Dialogue, Mrs Anitha Pinto, head of Commission for Family, Mr Melwyn Dcunha, head of Commission for Youth, Mrs Rita Fernandes, head of Commission for Small Christian Communities, Mr Prashant Lewis, Animator of DMYM and Avit Premson Lobo, President of DMYM.

The program commenced at 6:30 pm where the active members of DMYM performed an Introduction Dance and the Master of Ceremonies of the cultural program Josphine and Royston gave a beautiful introduction to the program. The Prayer Song was sung at the beginning and followed by a Christmas Tableau which gave an insight about Christmas.

All the dignitaries were welcomed to the stage and Mr Santhosh, Vice President of Parish Pastoral Council extended a Warm Welcome to the gathering.

Mr. Mohammed Shafeeq delivered the inaugural speech, emphasizing the unity of all religions and the importance of collaboration in a harmonious manner. He highlighted the need to extend help to individuals of any faith in times of need, devoid of preconceived notions or biases. Mr. Shafeeq stressed that no religion advocates hate or criminal activities; rather, they instill values of love and treat everyone as one's own brothers and sisters.

Mr. Ramananda Noojipady, the Headmaster of Government English Medium High School, Daddalakadu, delivered the second speech, emphasizing the importance of discipline in life. He encouraged children to respect their elders and strive for success. Mr. Noojipady expressed concern about the increasing attraction of children to mobile phones and the internet, leading to unnecessary problems. Instead, he suggested fostering discipline through activities like meditation and yoga, which can help calm the mind and instill a sense of discipline.

In the third speech, Reverend Father Roshan Crasta, an esteemed guest, highlighted the significance of Christmas as a special day. He articulated that Christmas symbolizes God taking the form of a man and residing among us, emphasizing that understanding the true essence of Christmas comes from recognizing the divine presence within each individual. Rev. Fr. Crasta further stressed the unity of all religions, suggesting that instead of merely discussing it among ourselves, the focus should be on educating those who disrupt the harmonious coexistence of different faiths. Drawing inspiration from the Bible's account of the Magi following the Star of Bethlehem, he compared us to stars and urged leaders to guide society towards coexistence, peace, and harmony.

In the fourth address, Mr. Ramakrishna H, the officer, drew attention to the seven sutras of Basaveshwara, likening them to the principles embedded in India's law and order system, as outlined in the Constitution. He enlightened the audience on the imperative need to be cautious in the age of internet dependency, cautioning against falling into traps set by hackers. Mr. Ramakrishna highlighted the prevalence of scams in recent times and anticipated new challenges in society, emphasizing the importance of prudent use of the internet and various social media platforms. Furthermore, he underscored the occurrence of financial frauds reported at local police stations, urging everyone to be vigilant and informed about such potential scams.

In his Presidential Speech, Father Anil Canute Dmello extended warm wishes for a Merry Christmas to the gathering. He emphasized the importance of following the Golden Rule, as taught by Jesus Christ: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Father Dmello elaborated on this, urging everyone to treat others with the same concern and kindness they would like to receive in return.

Following the formalities, Coordinator of All the Commissions of the Church Mrs Emiliana Dcunha conveyed gratitude in a well-articulated vote of thanks, while the lively compering for the stage program by Reshma D’Cunha added an engaging touch to the programme.

A token of Gratitude was distributed to all the Guests and the Presidents, Vice President and Members of Taluk and Grama Panchayat.

Following the formal proceedings, the night unfolded with a vibrant Cultural program, featuring parishioners showcasing Skits, Carol Singing, and Dance performances. DMYM members also added to the entertainment with a lively dance performance. The winners of 'Moriyal Githam,' organized by DMYM in September, were honored during the event. To keep the audience engaged, an auction, housie housie, and various lucky games were conducted. The program reached its conclusion with the energetic beats of DJ Jaison, culminating in a lively Baila dance session.