By Paul Dsouza
Mangaluru, Mar. 17 : Silver Jubilee Celebration of Kripa foundation was held at Fathima Retreat House here on March 17, 2019 at 10.30am. Mr Rama Rao A.C.P South Sub Division was the chief guest, Sr Jyothi BS the former Superior General of Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany was the Guest of Honour.
Sr Jyothi BS inaugurated the programme by lightning the 'Diya'. In her Inaugural message she highlighted the healing mission of Jesus Christ. She congratulated the yeomen services of Kripa foundation in the lives of Alcoholic dependents and instilling in them the new life. 'We should be blessing in the lives of others', she said.
Mr Rama Rao in his speech applauded the services of Kripa foundation. The rampant crime of drug peddling in Mangaluru was curbed due to the systematic work done by the team. He highlighted the contribution of Mother Teresa to the society. Similarly as of now Kripa foundation has 69 branches in India, he wished that it should extend further its services to the Society.
Another chief guest Rev Fr Charles Menezes once again gave a clarion call to reach out to the needy people in the society. He wished them well for their future endeavours. Mr Praveen Chandra Alva the local Corporator highlighted the 25 years of selfless service of Kripa foundation to the Alcoholic dependant families. He appreciated the contribution of Christian institutes to the society. The disciplinary and compassionate approach has brought a name to this area, he said.
Fr Joel H Pereira, the founder Trustee and the President of the day's programme in his presidential address spoke about the inspiration he got from Mother Theresa. Jesus Christ is the motivating force behind this service. Kripa foundation has spread to 44 countries and recently to China. The 'Padma Shree Award' winner acknowledged that the honour recieved by him belongs to his co-helpers in this venture. 30 Yoga mats costing Rs 1000/- each will be distributed on the occasion, he said. "Our bodies are the temple of God. So we need to preserve our identity. The afflicted and affected will be a powerful presence in the society. Together we affirm to build a new society", he opined. He thanked Mr Paul Dsouza the Manager of Kripa foundation Mangaluru for effectively carrying out the mission in Mangaluru.
Mr Paul Dsouza handed over the mementos to the guests on the dais and thanked the participants. Mrs Sushma Soans the lecturer of M V Shetty College anchored the programme. Mrs Shwetha the staff of Kripa foundation welcomed the guests and the gathering. Nearly 150 people were present for the programme.
After the programme the success stories were narrated by two of the beneficiaries. There were some games conducted by the MSW students of MV Shetty College. The winners were given away the prizes. The lunch was served at the end of the programme.