Mangalore Diocese News

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza
Pics : Veron & Meena Serrao Barboza

Bondel - Mangaluru, July 7 : "Protect Nature without Pride; Praise God without Guide"

Catholic Sabha Bondel Unit, ICYM, and Environment Commission Bondel Parish jointly Organized Laudato Si Sunday "Vruksha Vandan & Jala Bandhan"  on Sunday, 07 July 2024 at 8.00 a.m. at St Lawrence Church premises, Bondel.

After 7 a.m. Mass, Mr. Francis Maxim Moras, known for his role in managing traffic on NH66, and Mr. Jeet Milan Roche , a distinguished environmentalist from Mangalore were felicitated for their exceptional contributions to society.

Rev. Fr. Andrew Leo D'Souza , Parish Priest, Rev Fr Peter Gonsalves -Principal St Lawrence Eng. Med. School ,Rev Fr William D'Souza Asst. Parish Priest , Mr John D'Silva -Vice President Parish Pastoral council, Mr Stephan D'Silva -President Catholic Sabha Bondel Unit and Mr Herold Pinto presented them with mementos, including flower bouquets, shawls, and sapling , in recognition of their remarkable achievements.

Following the felicitation programme, Mr. Pius Francis Menezes from Balkunje delivered an insightful introduction on water harvesting. He discussed the significance of water, methods to conserve it, causes of water scarcity, and the principles of rainwater harvesting. He also outlined six simple steps for effective water harvesting: respect water, reserve water, refill water, reduce water usage, refuse wasteful practices, and recycle.

A short programme was held near the shrine where all the dignitaries gathered to plant the saplings. The Parish Priest Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza welcomed everyone present, including parishioners and notable attendees such as Mr. Francis Maxim Moras, Mr Jeeth Roche, Mr Francis Menezes . Rev. Fr. William D' Souza, Rev. Fr Peter Gonzales, Vice-President John D' Silva, Br. Balaswamy, Mr Stephen de Silva President Catholic Sabha Bondel Unit , Mr. Wilfred Alvares -President -City varado, Mr Harold Pinto Convener Environment Commission and Miss Murel ICYM President.

During his speech, he introduced and praised the individuals being felicitated.

Mr. Francis Maxim Moras, responsible for traffic control, urged everyone to be patient on the road and prioritize safety. Environmentalist Jeeth Roche , in a brief address, emphasized the importance of protecting the environment, planting trees, and safeguarding Mother Earth. . Each dignitary took part in watering the newly planted saplings, marking the significance of the event.

Mr. Wilfred Alvares, the President of the City of Varado introduced a competition where participants will be judged on the growth of their saplings over the next year, with prizes awarded to those who nurture their plants the best. Over 500 saplings were distributed to all the parishioners, including the 36 ward gurakar's .

The gathering concluded with a final blessing by Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Andrew Leo D'Souza and a Thanksgiving hymn.