May 02,2024: The grand finale of the Golden Jubilee of Adyapady–Anthonykatte Parish was celebrated with deep devotion, joy, and cultural vibrance, making May 2, 2024 a truly historic day for the parish community.
Solemn Welcome to the Shepherd: The festivities began at 4:15 p.m., when Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, was accorded a warm and colourful welcome at Adyapady Junction. The welcoming procession was a splendid sight – a brass band played lively tunes, colourful umbrellas adorned the path, and fireworks lit up the sky, creating a festive spirit among the gathered faithful.
The Thanksgiving Eucharist commenced with Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha as the main celebrant. The solemn Mass was concelebrated by 22 priests, attended by 22 religious sisters and around 350 faithful parishioners. The Commission for Liturgy provided invaluable assistance, ensuring that the liturgy was both spiritually enriching and flawlessly organised.
A 45-minute stage programme began at 6:00 p.m., featuring distinguished interreligious chief guests, Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, Mr. Harish Shetty, President, Management Committee of Shri Adhinatheshwara Temple, Adyapady, V. Rev. Fr Marcel Saldanha, Vicar Forane, Pezar Deanery, Jabbar Sakafi Kathib, Religious Head, Masood Jamaluddin Bailupete Dharga, Adyapady. The presence of leaders from different faiths reflected the parish’s commitment to harmony, respect, and unity in the community.
On the dais were Parish Priest Fr. Francis Rodrigues, Vice President Shri Jhonson Dsouza, and Secretary Shri Sunil Dsouza. The dignitaries were welcomed by Fr. Francis Rodrigues, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Vice President Shri Jhonson Dsouza. The programme was gracefully compered by Jackson and Priya Mathias.
The stage programme was followed by 45 minutes of variety entertainment by parishioners, showcasing their artistic talents through music, dance, and skits. A specially prepared documentary portraying the growth, struggles, and milestones of the parish was also presented, evoking nostalgia and gratitude among the audience.
At 7:30 p.m., a sumptuous vegetarian meal featuring 13 delicious items was served. Over 1200 people of all faiths shared this meal in a spirit of fellowship and togetherness, making it one of the most memorable parts of the celebration.
The final highlight of the evening was the Tulu comedy drama “Pudhar Dheedand” performed by the renowned Cha Parka troupe, led by Ln Dr Devdhas Kapikad. The parish grounds were filled beyond capacity, with over 1300 enthusiastic viewers enjoying continuous waves of hearty laughter until the very end.
The Golden Jubilee finale was more than a celebration – it was a testament to the parish’s journey of faith, service, unity, and resilience over the past 50 years. As the parish steps into a new chapter, the memories of this historic day will continue to inspire the faithful to live in harmony and work together for the glory of God and the good of the community.
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