Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Kankanady - Mangaluru, Dec 18 : As the festive season unfolds, Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) extended a warm invitation to everyone to partake in the magic of Christmas at their spectacular Christmas Programme, which took place on December 16, 2023, at 6 pm on the Hospital ground.

Under the patronage of Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho Director FMCI and graced by the presence of the Chief Guest Dr Maruvala Narayana Bhat Vice Principal St Aloysius College Mangaluru, the evening turned into a promising celebration of joy, peace, and goodwill.

The Program Schedule was brimming with a delightful array of performances and activities such as dances, carol singing, tableau, mime show, lucky draw and so forth.

The festivities kicked off with a Prayer Dance by the talented students of Father Muller Nursing College Thumbe (FMNCT), setting the tone for an evening filled with grace and devotion.

A warm welcome awaited all attendees by Rev. Fr Roshan Crasta Administrator Father Muller Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital (FMHMC&H), followed by the melodious strains of English carols sung by the students of Father Muller College of Physiotherapy (FMCOP) and Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences (FMCOAHS).

The highlight of the evening included the release of the Christmas Bulletin and Calendars by the Chief Guest, accompanied by a heartfelt Christmas message. Dr. Maruvala, highlighted the historical link between St. Aloysius College and Father Muller. He expressed gratitude towards the staff at Father Muller Charitable Institutions for their selfless services for decades. Referencing a 1910 Mangalore magazine article on Fr. Muller. He spoke in wonderment about the life of inspiration that Fr Muller lived. He also emphasized on the importance of learning to respect diverse opinions in today's social media-driven world. The message centered on fostering tolerance, starting at home, and actively participating in society echoing Fr. Muller's teachings of simplicity, humility, and service to the less fortunate.

The Director FMCI shared his thoughts in a Presidential Address. In a poignant address reflecting on the profound message of love and forgiveness derived from Jesus' teachings. He emphasized the need for unconditional love, urging individuals to embrace their shared identity as children of one God. Against the backdrop of rising terrorism and crime, he called for a collective commitment to humanity, transcending religious differences and prioritizing the human race. Fr. Coelho advocated for forgiveness, encouraging those who may have been involved in wrongdoing to seek reconciliation and prioritize love and peace in a world that desperately needs it.

Adding a touch of local flavour, the staff of Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) presented a skit , showcasing the birth and life of Jesus and focusing on His ministry of healing and paralleled it with the hospital setting in which medical professionals become instruments of God's healing. The celebration continued with a free-style dance by the talented students of Father Muller College (Speech & Hearing) and a captivating mime performance by Father Muller Medical College (FMMC).

Christmas carols in the vernacular language resonated through the air as students from Father Muller College of Nursing (FMCON) and Father Muller School of Nursing (FMSON) took center stage.

Excitement peaked with a Lucky Draw and Prize Distribution, bringing smiles and surprises to lucky winners. The evening was adorned with a mesmerizing dance drama by FMHMC&H, showcasing the creativity and talent within the FMCI community.

Santa Claus himself made a grand entrance, spreading joy and laughter among the audience. The celebration concluded with the Institution Anthem and the distribution of delicious Christmas cake, symbolizing the sweetness of the festive season.

The event was compered by Dr Anusha G. Sanil & Dr Mable Pranita Andrade.

This year the Father Muller Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital (FMMCH&H) took charge of organizing and conducting the entire event.

The event, organized by the dedicated faculty and students of Father Muller Institutions, has become a beloved tradition in the community for many decades.

Locals, including auto-drivers, shopkeepers, neighbours, students from various Father Muller Charitable Institutions, and relatives of admitted patients, flock to the celebration year after year. This year witnessed a staggering attendance of over 1700 people, a testament to the event's popularity and the joy it brings to the community. This magical celebration transcends age and background, bringing the community together in the true spirit of Christmas and an unforgettable evening of festivities, fellowship, and holiday magic!