Catholic Sabha – Mount Rosary Church Unit Santekatte & Laity Commission Observe Laity Day 2025

By Maria Wilma Rego
Pics by Praveen Cutinho
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi: The vibrant spirit of service, faith, and leadership came alive at Mount Rosary Church as the Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh® in collaboration with the Parish Laity Commission celebrated Laity Day 2025 with great reverence and enthusiasm on Sunday, 22nd June 2025.

 

Holy Eucharistic Celebration

The day began with a solemn Holy Mass at 8:00 a.m., with the faithful gathering in large numbers. A special portrait of St. Thomas More, the Patron of the Laity, was reverently displayed. Rev. Fr Rohan Muscarenhas, Assistant Parish Priest, was the main celebrant, setting a deeply spiritual tone for the celebrations.

 

Stage Program Commencement

After breakfast, the formal stage program commenced at 9:15 a.m. in the Church Mini Hall. The program opened with a soulful Konkani hymn, “Poilen Tuka Harsitelyan Dhaniya”, sung by the talented Choir led by Mrs. Jovita Fernandes.

 

Welcome & Inauguration

A graceful welcome dance by Ms. Chaya captivated the audience, followed by a warm welcome address by Mr. Archibald Furtado, President of the Catholic Sabha and Convenor of the Laity Commission. He emphasized the significance of Laity Day, highlighting the laity’s pivotal role in the Church’s mission, while also sharing a brief reflection on the past achievements and future aspirations.

 

The symbolic inauguration ceremony featured the dignitaries, led by Rev. Fr Rohan Muscarenhas, pouring water onto a plant—an inspiring gesture representing growth, care, and shared responsibility. Fr. Rohan, in his keynote address, eloquently highlighted the indispensable role of laypeople in the Church’s structure and praised the Catholic Sabha for its dynamic and visionary leadership.

Honouring Entrepreneurs of the Parish

In a heartening segment, around 60 entrepreneurs of the parish were recognized. Their commendable contributions were introduced by Prof. Royston Quadros, who acknowledged the challenge of gathering information from all due to time constraints and the humility of many honorees. Their work in generating employment and promoting dignity of labor was rightfully praised as service to the Church and nation.

 

Chief Guest’s Address – Mr. Walter Nandalike

The event’s Chief Guest, Mr. Walter Nandalike, Founder and Managing Director of Daijiworld Media Pvt. Ltd., was introduced by Mr. Elias D’Souza, former President of the Catholic Sabha. Mr. Nandalike was felicitated with a shawl, bouquet, and memento.

 

In his stirring address, Mr. Nandalike touched upon vital societal concerns, the power and responsibility of media, and the importance of committed laity and social consciousness. His appeal to youth to pursue careers within India was particularly well received.

 

Gratitude from the Honourees

Speaking on behalf of all the honourees, Mr. Baptist Dias, President of Lions Club Kallianpur and former PPC Vice President, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful recognition and support extended to the achievers.

 

Prathibha Puraskar & Achievers’ Felicitation

A proud moment unfolded as around 20 meritorious students from Class X and XII, along with catechism exam toppers, were felicitated with certificates and cash awards by the dignitaries. Their names were joyfully announced by Mrs. Rosy Quadros, former President, and greeted with thunderous applause.

 

Adding to the celebration, seven outstanding individuals were honoured for achievements in diverse fields:

 

Dr. Clara Menezes (M.Com., Ph.D.) – Academics

Ancy Martis (CPA, Canada) – Finance

Dr. Mellisa Judith Lewis & Dr. Sharral R. Tauro – Medicine

Brinelle Menezes – Arts & Culture

Dallon Aleron Lewis & Mark Anthony – Sports (National, State & University Level)

 

Mrs. Margaret D’Souza, Secretary of Catholic Sabha, introduced the achievers, who were felicitated with shawls, bouquets, and mementos. Rev. Dr. Roque D’Souza, Parish Priest and Spiritual Director of Catholic Sabha, delivered an inspiring felicitation address, congratulating them and encouraging continued excellence.

Felicitation of Parish Leaders

In recognition of selfless service and leadership, the following parish leaders were felicitated:

Mr. Luke D’Souza – Vice President, Parish Pastoral Council

Mrs. Priya Furtado – Parish Secretary

Mrs. Daisy Mendonca – Convenor, 20 Commissions

Panchayat Leaders and Ward Gurkars Honoured

Panchayat representatives were also specially honoured:

Mr. Baptist Dias

Mrs. Meena Pinto

Mrs. Benedicta Menezes

Ward Gurkars and Presidents of pious associations were also recognized with roses, mementos, and shawls. Mr. Luke D’Souza commended the Catholic Sabha’s consistent contributions to parish life.

 

Honouring Former Presidents & Donors

A deeply emotional moment arrived as 21 past presidents of the Catholic Sabha over the last 37 years were honoured, with prayers offered for those no longer with us. Mrs. Wilma Rego, Treasurer, acknowledged all generous donors and well-wishers for their unwavering support.

 

A Tribute to Diocesan President – Mr. Santosh Carnelio

A proud son of the parish, Mr. Santosh Carnelio, who served two consecutive terms as Udupi Diocesan President, was honoured with a Kashmiri shawl, bouquet, and memento. Introduced by Mr. Dancy Machado, Mr. Carnelio called for committed and courageous laity leadership in his inspirational speech.

 

Mrs. Rosy Quadros, President, CS Kallianpur Varado, and Mr. Elias D’Souza, former President and event mastermind, were duly appreciated for their leadership and tireless efforts.

Vote of Thanks & Conclusion

Mrs. Margaret D’Souza, Secretary, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging every contributor to the success of the grand celebration.

 

The event was smoothly and elegantly compered by Mrs. Pramilla D’Souza, Joint Secretary, whose warm narration and perfect coordination made the event a resounding success.

 

Entertainment & Fellowship

The celebration concluded with vibrant performances by the ICYM youth, St. Philip Neri Ward elders, and Choir members, featuring songs, dances, and fusion acts. A lively Baila session added joy to the celebration.

 

A sumptuous lunch, generously sponsored by Mr. Santosh Carnelio and family, brought the celebration to a happy and memorable close. Over 200 attendees left with fond memories of a day well spent in fellowship and community spirit.