Mysore/Mysuru: Konkani Christian Association, Mysuru, had organised Christmas Celebration for its members and their families at Konkan Bhavan, Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, Mysuru, on Dec. 18.

The Grand Celebration began at 4 pm with Holy Mass in Konkani celebrated by Rev. Fr. John Sequeira, OCD Rector of Infant Jesus Shrine, Pushpashrama, along with 10 other concelebrants.

The retired Priests of the Mysuru Diocese Rev. Fr. Louis Noronha and Fr. Angelo Pais were felicitated after the Mass.

On the festive occasion, the Association donated Rs. 50,000 to ODP organisation, Bannimantap, towards their medicine and nutrition food project which benefit the poor cancer patients.

A 35-year-old woman, who is a kidney patient, was donated Rs. 40,000 for her dialysis. A sum of Rs. 20,000 was donated to another bed-ridden woman who is suffering from multiple diseases. For the donation purpose of medical treatment, amount was donated by members who attended the Christmas Celebration function. A grand cultural extravaganza was attended by about 500 members.

Association President John William D’Souza, along with the Committee Members, cut the Christmas cake to mark the beginning of Christmas Carnival.

Under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Melwyn D’Souza, Rector of Kripalaya, the Committee Members sang the Carols. The gathering was entertained with Konkani songs, dances and comedy   strips “Pokana.”

Gen. Secretary Joyce Sequeira welcomed. John William D’Souza delivered the President’s speech and Christmas Message and Treasurer Anil Saldanha proposed a vote of thanks.