Chaitanya, Shimoga, December 20, 2022: The special tradition initiated for Christmas by the Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society (R), Shimoga brought the ASHA workers together to share the joy of Christmas on 21 December 2022. The main purpose of the celebration was to recognize the service of all ASHA workers to the society as grassroot level health workers. The unique celebration “Christmas Sahamilana with ASHA workers” was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ, the Bishop of Shimoga and the President of SMSSS. Maulana Shahul Hameed, Shimoga, Dr Dhananjay Sarji, the Chairman of Sarji Hospitals, Shimoga and a famous Pediatrician were the chief guests. Mr Kiran Kumar, the district Coordinator of ASHA workers was the special invitee.
After the prayer song, Rev. Fr Clifford Roshan Pinto, the Director in his keynote address noted that since the past 3 years SMSSS is organizing Christmas celebration with different groups of people. This year we have already organized Christmas with Service Providers on 20 December 2022 and today it is with one more important group of people in the society, the grassroot level health workers. Christmas is a moment to share joy with people around. He also appreciated the dedicated service of all the ASHA workers.
Maulana Shahul Hameed, Shimoga, noted that the celebrations are intended to create harmony and brotherhood among people. However these days such an atmosphere is not visible. He appreciated the committed work of ASHA workers and noted that they are the role models to the society. Putting their life at risk they have served the society during Covid-19 pandemic. He noted that looking at the service of ASHA workers I too was inspired to serve the needy during the pandemic. Mr Kiran Kumar also appreciated the work of ASHA workers and praised SMSSS for recognizing the services of ASHA workers and honoring them during Christmas. Dr. Dhananjaya Sarji also appreciated the work of ASHA workers and provided them a few tips to make their life and that of others happy. Taking the example of Mother Teresa he observed that all of us are called upon to serve people without expecting anything in return. Along with Kiran Kumar, Dr Sarji noted the contribution of the Christian community in the fields of Education, Health and Social Work is irreplaceable.
Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ explained the true meaning of Christmas in the present context. He noted that God desiring to dwell among his people became man. Through his life and action Jesus has shown to us the true significance of service. This organization by celebrating Christmas with people like you who are directly associated with the organization is living the true spirit of Christmas. Through education support to 1600 children and through its direct interaction with around 20,000 women of all faiths this organization is spreading the message that all of us belong to one religion.
The Mrs Gloria Jyothi Furtado and the director conducted a few lucky games. All the participants received gifts from the organization. Cutting and sharing of Christmas cakes and singing of Christmas Carols increased joy and happiness. All the participants shared the festive dinner. The invites expressed their gratitude and words of appreciation for organizing the celebration and bringing ASHA workers together under roof. Ms Sushmitha compered the program. Mr Jagadeesha K H welcomed the dignitaries and the gathering. Ms Ronita Priya Sequeira proposed the vote of thanks. After the celebration Dr. Dhrakshayani from Sarji Hospital, Shimoga spoke to the participants on certain very important health tips which would help them in their day to day duty.
