Mangaluru: The festival of love, joy and happiness- Christmas was celebrated in the institution on December 22.
The Christmas celebrations commenced with a meditative prayer session lead by Wilson N- Junior Training Officer.
Inaugurating the programme, the chief guest, Lancelot Pinto- former deputy Mayor of the Mangaluru City Corporation said, “God came to Earth as a man and brought gifts of love, peace and simplicity. He gave mankind a very inspiring message- ‘love one another’. This institution celebrates festivals of all religions and teaches humanity to its students. We are all one. Let us live with love and unity.” He then wished the gathering a happy Christmas.
Prizes were then distributed to the winners of the Christmas star competition that was held the previous day as part of the celebrations. Students of second year Mechanic Motor Vehicle trade were placed first. Students of first year Electrician trade came second. The third place was shared by the students of Mechanic Diesel trade and students of second year Mechanic Refrigeration and air-conditioning. The theme for the competition was ‘eco-friendly star’. The creativity of the students was on display during the competition.
Vincent Mendonsa said, “Christmas is a festival of gifts. Jesus Christ gave himself as a gift to mankind. He came to save the poorest of the poor. But, today Christmas has been restricted only for the celebration and we have forgotten its true spirit. Lancelot Pinto is an inspiration for us all as he is always ready to help the needy. He started a hostel for rural poor girls named ‘Ashraya’. Let us help each other and make this Christmas meaningful.”
Greeting the students, Rev Fr Melwin Lobo SJ- Director of the institution said, “Jesus gives us all inspiration and guidance. This festival has three messages- humanity, helping the poor and love one another. Let us all spread the values of humanity in society. Let us help each other, especially the needy in whatever small ways we can. Let us fill society with love, thus making this Christmas truly meaningful and joyful.”
Following this, Christmas carols were sung by the students. They also presented a skit on the birth of Jesus Christ.
Santa Claus was the main attraction of the celebration.
Rohith- a plumber trade student compeered the programme. Uday- a student of Plumber trade delivered the welcome address. Denson- a student of Electronics Mechanic trade spoke on the significance of Christmas. Yathish- a student of welder trade proposed vote of thanks.
