Udupi Christian Community Pays Tribute to Pulwama Martyrs
Udupi: In remembrance of the brave Indian soldiers who were martyred in the terrorist attack recently, the Catholic Sabha of Udupi Deanery organized a condolence meeting in the premises of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi on Sunday, 17 February evening.
Speaking on this occasion, Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, the Spiritual Director of Udupi deanery Catholic Sabha said that while denouncing the heinous terrorist act of the terrorists, we should remember the great sacrifice the soldiers had done which should enable the entire nation to unite. There is no greater act than sacrificing one’s life for the safety and happiness of others. He further said that for the security of the citizens, these brave soldiers have laid down their lives.
Soldiers toil day and night for the security of their countrymen. It is unfortunate that such brave soldiers have become victims of mindless and cruel terrorist activities. The dreams and hopes that these soldiers had for their loved ones and families have been shattered. Under these circumstances, each and every citizen of the country should show solidarity. All the political parties irrespective of their ideological and religious persuasion should show unity while paying respect to the martyred soldiers.
Retired Col. Arthur Rodrigues, former President of Ex-Servicemen Association said that being an ex-serviceman he was very much pained to hear about the tragic death of the soldiers in the terrorist attack. With minimum sleep, rest and food, the soldiers who had the responsibility of protecting the nation have become martyrs. We will never forget their sacrifice. All the citizens of the country should join hands and support any action of the government that it deems right to annihilate the terrorists and their activities.
A Prayer service was conducted for the martyred soldiers followed by one-minute silence and lighting of candles in their memory.
Fr Royson Fernandes- PRO of Udupi Diocese, Mary D’Souza- President of the Catholic Sabha, Udupi deanery, Fr Vijay D’Souza- Assistant Parish Priest of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi, Dion D’Souza- ICYM President of Udupi Diocese, Maxim D’Souza- Secretary of the Catholic Sabha, Udupi Deanery and others were present.
Alphonse D’Costa-Secretary of Pastoral Council of Udupi Diocese compered the programme and delivered the vote of thanks.
CSI members were also present for the condolence meeting.