The Women’s Jubilee Celebration was held with great joy and devotion at St. Sebastian
Church, Bendur, on 13th September 2025. The program began with a Thanksgiving Mass
at 5:00 PM, celebrated by our Parish Vicar as the main celebrant. In his meaningful homily,
the Vicar reflected on the vital role of women in the family, Church, and society, drawing
inspiration from the lives of Mary, Martha, Mother Teresa, and many others who dedicated
themselves to faith, service, and love.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the evening’s cultural program commenced at 6:15 PM
in the Centenary Auditorium. The program opened with a melodious prayer song presented
by the parish choir, setting a devotional atmosphere. This was followed by a welcome dance
performed gracefully by the members of the Ladies Social Service League.
The event was graced by the presence of our Vicar Fr. Walter Dsouza, Assistant Parish
Priests Fr. Vivek Pinto and Fr. Osmond D’Souza, Principal Fr. Arun Lobo, Vice President
Mr. Vinod D’Souza, Secretary Mrs. Patsy Britto, all Commission Convenor Mr. Deepak
D’Souza, along with the lady presidents of various parish associations. Women’s Commission
Convenor Sr. Shubha welcomed the gathering warmly and presented a beautifully crafted
handmade flower vase as a token of appreciation.
The Chief Guest of the day was Ms. Leeza Rodrigues, a well-known MC and toast master,
MBA graduate, Youtuber, Anchor for Podcast Carmel Café, student trainer and public speaker,
health coach and Diabetic educator. In her inspiring address, she highlighted the challenges
faced by women in family life, encouraging them to remain strong, balance their
responsibilities, and give quality time to their loved ones.
The highlight of the celebration was the honouring of distinguished women achievers from
the parish for their remarkable contributions in various fields. They included:

• Mrs. Mary Hilda D’Souza – International medal winner in athletics.
• Mrs. Philomena Lobo – Joint Director of Public Instruction, Govt of Karnataka.
• Mrs. Laveena D’Souza – Mother of five children, symbol of family strength.
• Mrs. Mariyamma Thomas – Advocate and ex corporator
• Mrs. Irene D’Cunha – district commissioner of Guides.
• Mrs. Anitha Frank – Diocesan Women’s Commission Secretary.
• Dr. Cryshal Mathias – Awarded Ph.D. in Commerce from Mangalore University.
• Mrs. Ida D’Souza – Juvenile Board Member, handling child-related cases.
  Each of the achievers was honoured with a shawl, memento, and gift in recognition of their
  excellence and service.
  This was followed by the distribution of prizes to the winners of various competitions held as
  part of the Jubilee celebrations. In his message, the Vicar congratulated the achievers and
  participants, urging everyone to draw inspiration from the strong women in our Church and
  community.
  A special moment was created when the priests of the parish sang a song of wishes, composed
  and written by the Vicar himself, which was warmly appreciated by the audience.
  The evening also featured a colourful cultural program:
• A comedy skit by the Legion of Mary members, bringing smiles and laughter.
• A lively Qawwali song by the Women’s Commission members on the theme of
  marriage.
• A thought-provoking skit on mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationships in
  olden and modern times, presented by parish women.
• A musical skit titled “Mobile and Bile” highlighting the impact of mobile phones on
  family life in today’s society.
  The program concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Mrs. Gracy, who expressed
  gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the celebration. The event was beautifully
  compered by Mrs. Blosom Rego.
  The joyous celebration ended with a delicious dinner prepared by the women of the parish,
  fostering fellowship and togetherness among all gathered.