Catholic Sabha honours new bishop, religious, laity leaders

Mangaluru: The Catholic Sabha Mangaluru Pradesh (R.) honoured its patron and new bishop of the Mangaluru Diocese, Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, in a programme at the bishop’s house in Kodialbail here on November 4.

The new bishop was accorded a traditional welcome to the tune of gumta songs and taken to the programme hall in a procession. All were welcomed with a melodious song composed by Anil Patrao.

The prominent laity leaders honoured on this occasion were senior journalist and KPSC member, Dr Ronald Anil Fernandes and new chairman of the MCC bank, Anil Lobo. The religious leaders honoured were the new Vicar General of the Mangaluru Diocese, Msgr Lawrence Maxim Noronha and outgoing Vicar General, Msgr Denis Moras Prabhu.

Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha lauded the selfless service of the Catholic Sabha and highlighted the emergence of the community’s youth in government service.

Catholic Sabha Mangaluru Pradesh Spiritual Director Rev Fr Mathew Vas, President Rolphy D’Costa, General Secretary Celestine D’Souza, Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh Spiritual Director Rev Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves and President Alwyn Quadros were present on the dais.

Catholic Sabha Vice-President David D’Souza welcomed the gathering. Celine Rodrigues and Francis D’Cunha compered the programme. CS President Designate Stany Lobo rendered a vote of thanks.