Udupi: “We should set aside our indifferences to become better humans,” said Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi diocese, during his address at the ‘Sauhardha Christmas Celebration – 2015’ organised jointly by Sarvadharma Sauhardha Samithi Kuntalnagar-Manipura and St Antony’s Church Kuntalnagar at Sri Ganeshothsava Samithi Dendoorkatte here on Wednesday, December 16.
“India, a land of 29 states and 7 union territories, 3000 castes and 10 religions, has catered brotherhood and peace. Unity in diversity makes our country special. We follow different religions but our religious scriptures lead us to follow brotherhood, love, tolerance, concern and non-violence. We should first learn to be humans and work towards building society. Every religion is established on the basis of promoting peace and love. Religions survive only if principles of love and peace are established and followed. When we understand other religions, we can live in peace and love,” he added.
Esha Vittala Dasa, Swamiji of Kemaru Math, said that we are working hard towards destroying humanity by remaining adamant on our views. “Patience is most rewarded; when it is lost, society tends towards destruction. India is a land of rich culture and everyone should work hard towards building India and protecting its culture. Mothers should nurture young minds by filling them with moral values and love. When we work towards educating children, then our festivals find meaning,” said the Swamiji.
Mohammed Asheel, who scored the highest marks in Civil Service entrance exam, was honoured on the occasion.
Dr Mohan Manoraj – Bishop of CSI Southern Diocese; Janab Moofar Hamid – president of Rehamania Mosque; Sakharam Shetty – president of Sarvajanika Ganeshothsava Samithi Dendoor; Vedavysa Upadhyaya – main priest of Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple; Fr Clement Mascarenhas – parish priest of St Lawrence Church Moodubelle; Joseph Kundar, Wilfred Mendonca, Samuel Jatthanna, Roop Suguna Jatthanna, Valerian Mathias and others were present.
Fr Denis D’Sa, president of Sarvadharma Sauhardha Samithi Kuntalnagar-Manipura, welcomed the gathering. Joseph Kundar, Convener of the committee, delivered the vote of thanks. Roshan Sequeira compered the programme. Later, various cultural programmes were presented by the school children.
