News

Jan 2 : On 25 December 2023, ICYM Balkunje unit celebrated Christmas Bandhutva with the parishioners and people of the locality. The celebration began with a small program on the streets of Balkunje. The guests for this program were Rev Fr Paul Sequeira, Parish priest of Balkunje church, Shri Subramanya Bhat, Priest, Shri Mahalingeshwara temple Dendadka, Mohammad Shareef Haneefi, Ustaad Balkunje Mosque, Mrs Mamatha D Poonja, President of Balkunje Panchayat and Dr Freeda Rodrigues, Vice president of Parish Pastoral council.

The program commenced with a prayer song followed by the guests addressing the audience. A Christmas Tableau was performed and refreshments were served for the people present. Mr Colin Dsouza, animator of ICYM Balkunje and Amcho Yuvak Editor, central council Mangalore Diocese Welcomed the gathering. Ms Renisha Rodrigues delivered the vote of thanks, Ms Jonita Dsouza compered the program.

This was followed by a program at the church ground. The guests on the dais were Rev Fr Paul Sequeira, Parish priest of Balkunje church, Dr Freeda Rodrigues, Vice president of Parish Pastoral Council, Mrs Nancy Cardoza, Secretary of Parish Pastoral Council, Mrs Lavina Serrao, convenor of pastoral commissions, Mr Colin Dsouza, animator of ICYM Balkunje and Amcho Yuvak Editor, central council Mangalore Diocese, Ms Nelisha Lobo, president of ICYM Balkunje and Ms Neha Serrao, Secretary of ICYM Balkunje.

The Program commenced with a prayer song followed by a cutting of Christmas Cake. Rev. Fr Paul Sequeira addressed the gathering with a Christmas message. The presidents of various organizations and gurkars of the ward were called upon the stage and honoured for their support and enthusiasm. People who donated and contributed financially to the program were also honored. The crop harvested during the KRISHI KUSHI event was handed over to the president of the St Vincent Paul Society of the Parish.

This was followed by the commencement of cultural events. Various performances were given by the parishioners. Carols, dances, skits and songs were performed. The cultural event concluded with the baila dance. Dinner was served for everyone present.

Ms Nelisha Lobo welcomed the gathering, Ms Neha Serrao delivered the vote of thanks, Ms Clarissa Maria Cardoza compered the program.