Udupi: Sauharda Samithi, Catholic Sabha, Udupi unit, Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Udupi and Lions Club Udupi Sangama jointly celebrated “Sarva Dharma Deepavali celebrations’ at Our Lady of Sorrows Church premises on Friday, October 20.
Most Rev Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo Bishop of Udupi diocese presided over the programme. Murlidher Upadyaya, President of Rathabeedi Galeyara Balaga was the chief guest.
The programme began with prayer dance by St. Cecily’s School students. Very Rev Fr. Valerian Mendonca Parish Priest of Udupi Church and Chancellor of Udupi Diocese welcomed the gatherings. Rt. Sudheer Robinson Anand, Pastor of CSI Ebernjnar Church, Malpe, Mohammed Suhan Sasthan Acting District Public Prosecutor, Udupi district were the speakers’ of the occasion.
Bishop inaugurated the Sarva Dharma Deepavali celebrations by lighting the diyas. Around 500 diyas were lighted on the occasion of Deepavali celebrations by other guests.
In his presidential address Bishop said that where there is light there would be the sign of joy and hope. Light of knowledge can destroy the darkness of ignorance. People of various religions celebrating festivals together will foster brotherhood and harmony.
Alphonse D’Costa compered the programme and Michael D’Souza proposed vote of thanks. Sweets and cold juice were distributed to all the participants at the end of the programme.
