Udupi: Golden Jubilee Celebrations kick-starts at Kelmbet

By Wilson D’Souza Shirva
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi, 23 Dec 2013: The inauguration of the Golden Jubilee year of establishing the Church of St John Bosco at Kelmbet, near here was held amidst a host of dignitaries and the parishioners on Sunday December 22.

 
The celebrations began with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo of Udupi diocese. 

 
Speaking on the occasion Bishop Dr Gerald said, ‘Jubilee celebrations is an opportunity to recall and thank God for the graces He has showered on us through the many people who toiled to build this church the fruits of which is enjoyed today,’ said Bishop Dr Gerald.  Tracing back the steps he said, the people of Kelmbet walked long distances to hear and participate in the Holy Mass.  The faith of the people encouraged Fr N J Pereira -founder of the parish to set up a small chapel to cater to the spiritual needs of the people and eventually the chapel became a church. The numerous vocations to religious life and priesthood are a living testimony of the holiness of the people and the handiwork of God in this church,’ said Bishop Dr Gerald.

 

 
Speaking on the occasion, the state urban and Udupi district-in-charge minister Vinay Kumar Sorake said good education for all people came about as a result of the tireless efforts of Christian Missionaries and have continued till date.  Appreciating the work of Don Bosco Group of Education Institutions in India, he assured of his support in setting up the new English Medium School at Kelmbet.  He also assured the gathering of making available the numerous schemes for Minorities to the people of the parish.

 
The former MLA Gopal Bhandary commended the work of the Don Bosco clergies in this region of the Udupi district and assured his support to the various development works for the people of Kelmbet.

 
Fr Santaremand Lopes, parish priest thanked the dignitaries and the people of the parish for participating wholeheartedly in the preparation and celebration of the inauguration. 

 
Shirva deanery vicar Fr Stany Tauro, Don Bosco education institutions rector Fr Maxim D’Souza also spoke on the occasion.

 
The day was marked by releasing the balloons and a variety cultural entertainment programme.