St. Sebastian Church, Bendur joyfully celebrated the Christmas Jubilee on 22nd December 2025 at 6:00
p.m. near the Lions Club Grounds, Kadri. The grand celebration witnessed an overwhelming gathering of
parishioners, people from neighboring areas, and members of different communities, making it a true
expression of Christmas joy, unity, and fraternity.
The celebration began on a festive note with the St. Sebastian Church Brass Band, which welcomed the
gathering with melodious Christmas tunes. This was followed by a prayerful Christmas hymn rendered by
the Children’s Choir, setting a reverent and joyful tone for the evening. The Bethany Convent Sisters then
presented a graceful prayer dance, beautifully conveying the spirit of Christmas through movement and
devotion.
Rev. Fr. Arun Lobo, Principal of Padua College, extended a warm welcome to all present. Sr. Shubha,
Superior of Bethany Convent, introduced the dignitaries of the evening. The chief guests were Rev. Fr.
Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Medical College, Mangaluru, and Er. Arun Prabha, General
Manager (Technical), Mangaluru Smart City Limited, who graced the occasion along with Rev. Fr. Walter
D’Souza, Parish Vicar, assistant priests, Vice President, Secretary, and other parish leaders.
The Christmas Jubilee was formally inaugurated by the dignitaries by symbolically switching on the
revolving Jubilee emblem, signifying light, hope, and renewal. This was followed by the cutting of the
Christmas cake, marking the traditional and joyous spirit of the festival.
A deeply touching highlight of the celebration was the distribution of financial assistance as a gesture of
Christmas sharing and compassion. Cheques of ₹25,000 each were presented to:
- Mrs. Priscilla Pinto, a cancer patient
- Mrs. Sujatha Shetty, in need of support for house construction
- Ms. Thaira, a dialysis patient
This meaningful act truly reflected the essence of Christmas—love, care, and generosity towards the needy.
In his message, Er. Arun Prabha appreciated the parish for celebrating Christmas in a unique and inclusive
manner, bringing together people of all religions and backgrounds. Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, in his
inspiring address, explained the deeper meaning of Bandutva—bonding and brotherhood—and emphasized
that true Christmas lies in sharing, caring for neighbors, and loving one another.
The celebration was further enriched by vibrant cultural performances. Children from St. Theresa School and
the Senior Citizens presented a meaningful dance drama on the message of Christmas. Soulful carol
singing by the Bethany Sisters, Youth Choir, and Konkani Choir in multiple languages captivated the
audience. Energetic Christmas dance performances by Padua PU students added color and enthusiasm to
the evening. The joyful entry of Santa Claus brought cheer and excitement, especially among the children.
The event was graced by the presence of several local leaders, whose participation added significance to the
celebration. Prominent among them were Kudpi Arvind Shenoy Lions District governor, Pradeep D’Souza
Deputy Director of the District Youth Empowerment and Sports Department , Naveen Dsouza MCC
Corporator Vinayak Pai chairmn of Kenara Builders association, Anil Lobo chairman of MCC Bank,
Praveen Chandra Alva MCC Corporator, Stany Alvares president of Konkani sahitya acdemy, Pius
Rodrigues director of pollution control board, Sunil Bajilakeri social worker and more.
and many others. Their presence underscored the strong bond between the parish and the wider community.
Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza, Parish Vicar, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to making the
celebration a grand success. Mrs. Patsy Britto, Parish Secretary, proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging
the efforts of organizers, volunteers, performers, sponsors, and all those who participated. The program was
ably compered by Mr. Arun D’Souza.
The Christmas Jubilee celebration concluded on a joyful note, leaving behind cherished memories of faith,
fellowship, charity, and true Christmas spirit, making it a meaningful and memorable occasion for all
present.