by Michael Rodrigues, Team Mangalorean
Udupi: The Kallianpur deanery level Sarva Dharma Sammelana was organised by the Kallinapur deanery inter-religious harmony committee, as part of the inaugural ceremony of the newly built Mount Rosary Church Sathekatte Kallianpur here on Monday January 5.
The programme began with a Welcome dance by Mount Rosary English medium Students; Richard Dais secretary of the committee welcomed the gathering. Fr Philip Neri Aranha director of the deanery inter-religious harmony committee delivered the introductory remarks and explained the importance of the Sammelana.
Moulana Usman Madani of Jamia Masjid Nejar symbolically inaugurated the Sammelana by lighting the lamp. In his inaugural message Usman Madani said that our religions do not preach to criticise other religions. We should show concern towards the poor and should let our fellow human beings to live in peace which will lead to social reformation, he added.
Dr N B Vijay Ballal administrative trustee of Shri Mahakali Janardhana temple Ambalpadi Udupi in his message said that every religion believes in eternal life after death and we can enter heaven only if we love each other and live in harmony. We should rest our faith on God who lifts us from all difficulties in our life which will helps us to be humble and happy. If we respect all the religions then peace will prevail over the society, he added.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi in his presidential address said that India has sheltered many religions which has strengthened equality and let us live with peace, concern, love and brotherhood he added.
Jerry Vincent Dais, vice president of Mount Rosary Church, various church parish priests of Kallianpur deanery, Joseph Rebello convener of the Sammelana were present.