Mangalore: Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh® Derebail Unit celebrated the closing ceremony of its Silver Jubilee function on June 28th at the Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail.

The Eucharistic celebration was held at 5 PM. Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis was the main celebrant, accompanied by the Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Nelson Peris and Rev. Fr. Kevin D'Souza.

In the evening, the formal function commenced at the Derebail Church Golden Jubilee Hall. Nelson Castelino, President of Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh® Derebail Unit, occupied the seat on the dais. Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, Parish Priest and Spiritual Director of the Catholic Sabha Derebail Unit, inaugurated the function.

The Chief Guest was City Varado Vicarvar and Parish Priest of Vamanjoor Parish, Rev. Fr. James D'Souza. Other dignitaries included Santhosh D'Souza, Central President of Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh®, Rev. Fr. Fredrick Monteiro, City Varado Spiritual Director, Vilma Monteiro, President of Catholic Sabha City Varado and General Secretary of Catholic Sabha Central Committee, along with Guests of Honour: Rev. Dr. Mark Castelino, Founder Spiritual Director of the Catholic Sabha Derebail Unit; Rev. Fr. Nelson Peris, Assistant Parish Priest;  Sheela D'Souza, Parish Pastoral Council Vice President;  Denzil Pinto, Parish Pastoral Council Secretary; Anil Patrao, Derebail Parish 21 Commission Coordinator;  Shaila Noronha, Secretary, Catholic Sabha Derebail Unit; Victor Corea, Silver Jubilee Convener; and Rev. Fr. Kevin D'Souza.

To mark the Silver Jubilee occasion, a souvenir titled Rupyalin Laaran was released by Vilma Monteiro, President of Catholic Sabha City Deanery and General Secretary of Catholic Sabha Central Committee.

Presidents and Secretaries who held office over the past 25 years were felicitated and honoured with bouquets and mementoes. Members who were the driving force from the unit's inception were also felicitated. The Spiritual Directors were honoured and felicitated as well.

Nelson Castelino, President of Catholic Sabha Derebail Unit, welcomed the gathering. Secretary Shaila Noronha presented the report. Convener Victor Corea delivered the vote of thanks. The Chief Guest addressed the august gathering.

Meanwhile, local doctor Sudheendra Rao, who has worked relentlessly to improve health and well-being, was also felicitated. He runs a clinic at Akashbhavan and has won the hearts of many local patients.

The Catholic Sabha Derebail Unit honoured Prem Moras, the first PhD holder in the Konkani language. Simon and  Pressy Pereira were honoured for their selfless service. Past President and Treasurer for the past 15 years, John Concesso, was also recognised for his dedicated service.

The unit honoured Vilma Monteiro for holding various positions and for her achievements as President of Catholic Sabha City Deanery and General Secretary of the Central Committee — a feather in the cap for the Derebail Unit.

A cultural programme was presented by the members of the Catholic Sabha. In conclusion, about 400 people attended and were treated to a sumptuous dinner.

The function was compered by Felcy Lobo.