Shimoga, September 10, 2023: The Diocese of Shimoga is observing this year (Year 2023) as "the Year of the Woman and the Girl Child." To uphold and respect the dignity and uniqueness of every woman and the girl child the diocese and the parishes are organizing various programs.
"JEEVANOTSAVA," a unique event brought 490 widows from all parishes and mission centres within the diocese under one roof in Sannidhi to celebrate life. The celebration began at 10.00AM with prayer dance performed by the children of Loyola High School, Shimoga.
After the formal inauguration of the program through the lighting of the lamp, Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ, the Bishop of Shimoga in his inaugural address stated that the number of within the diocese is much more. Only about 50% are participating in the event. When we conducted Karunotsava a few years back, several people had participated. The beauty that was at the time of the marriage has reduced. Today that beauty is on the face of the children. Life moves on in spite of struggles and difficulties. God is our stronghold. Bishop thanked everyone for their active participation.
Sr Dulcine Crasta UFS and Fr Joel Anil Prasad, Coordinator, KRPPIC were the resource persons for the event. They spoke about the situation of women from the sociological point of view and biblical point of view respectively. Both highlighted that women, even during the times of difficulties are capable of leading a dignified life.
Holy Eucharistic Celebration at 12.00 noon was presided over by the Bishop. In his homily Bishop noted that one woman's sight was always on the earth. This brought sin to the world. The other woman's sight was always above. Because of this we have salvation.
After the Eucharistic Celebration a few spot games were conducted by Fr Nelson Pinto OCD. Prizes were distributed to the winners. All the participants received a gift in the form of a Rosary, a picture of Divine Mercy and a set of six dinner plates. The program ended at 2.15 PM with fellowship meal. Breakfast was served to all the participants.
Rev Fr Roman Pinto compered the program. Rev. Fr Clifford Roshan Pinto, the Director of Chaitanya along with his team meticulously organized the program. Bus service to the participants was provided to and from Shimoga Bus Stand.
