Udupi: Communal harmony marked the procession of offerings organized on the eve of the centenary celebrations of Our Lady of Health Church, Shirva here on January 29.
Msgr Baptist Menezes, Vicar General of the Diocese of Udupi, flagged off the procession of offerings. The 38 ward members dressed up in traditional attires, marched from the Irmiz Chapel in a procession to the Church. The members of Shree Ganeshotsava Samithi, Mahila Mandala served refreshments and conveyed their wishes to the people on the centenary celebration.
The locals irrespective of caste and religion offered their agricultural products to the church. The members of the auto rickshaw drivers association and taxi drivers association also brought their offerings. The parishioners and parish priest of Belman, Mudarangadi, Kalathur, Mundkur, Shankerpura, Pernal, Pamboor, Moodubelle, Palimar and others also brought their offerings.
Fr Stany Tauro, Parish Priest speaking to www.mangalorean.com said that the people have brought in agricultural products forgetting caste and religion, which reflects the unity and harmony among the people. Their support has strengthened us, he added.
Wilson Dsouza, Vice-President Parish Pastoral Council speaking to www.mangalorean.com said that the people have whole heartedly extended their support by offering their agricultural products for the centenary celebrations. Shirva is known for brotherhood among all religions and this can be witnessed today as people of all religions have supported us.
MLC Ivan D’souza, Assistant Parish Priests Fr Wilson, Fr Anil and Fr Jerald, Secretary Parish Pastoral Council, William Machado and heads of other communities were also present.
