Society should learn to live with love, compassion and harmony – Fr Clifford Fernandes
Udupi: “In the society what we sow that we reap. That is why everyone in the society should learn to live with love, compassion and harmony”, said Fr Clifford Fernandes, Professor at St Joseph’s Seminary, Mangaluru.
He was speaking as chief guest at the ‘All Religious Christmas celebrations’ jointly organized by the Catholic Sabha of Udupi Pradesh and Udupi Unit at the premises of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi.
Continuing his message, Fr Clifford said, “Today there are people who are ready to die for faith and community.People should understand that religion is a way of life. However, many forget about the teachings of their respective religions while speaking about their own caste and community. In modern times, man has forgotten humanity which has led to many problems in the society. In order to prevent the adverse effects of such a trend, it is important to organize communal harmony programmes frequently. Instead of loving our brothers whom we can see, worshipping the invisible God has no meaning. Along with wiping the tears from the eyes of those who suffer, it is important to spread the message of love and compassion.”
Later Fr Clifford inaugurated the programme by lighting the Christmas Tree.
The Parish Priest of Mother of Sorrows Church, Fr Fred Mascarenhas presided over the programme. Dr Niketana, Assistant Professor of First Grade Government College Post Graduate Centre, Tenkanidiyooru, Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, Director of Catholic Sabha, Udupi Pradesh, Akbar Ali, member of Jamat-e-Islami Hind State Advisory Committee also spoke on the occasion.
The main attraction of the programme was the exhibition of a gigantic Christmas Tree and the Crib with lighted stars, a cultural programme from the students of Manasa Rehabilitation and Training Centre, Pamboor, Udupi Church Choir and Students from St Mary’s English Medium High School, Kannarpady. Distribution of gifts by Santa Claus and sharing of the Christmas cake to all present were other added attractions of the All Religious Christmas celebrations.
Valerian Fernandes, President of Catholic Sabha, Udupi Pradesh; Benedicta D’Souza, President of Catholic Sabha, Udupi Unit and Boniface D’Souza, Vice President of Parish Pastoral Council of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi were present on the dais.
Alphonse D’Costa, convener of the Souharda Samiti welcomed the guests, Mohammad Moula, member of the Souharda Samiti delivered the vote of thanks and Clara Mathias compered the programme.