Celebration of Faith, Family, and Togetherness: St. Lawrence Church, Moodubelle – Parish Day 2026

St. Lawrence Church, Moodubelle, celebrated Parish Day 2026 on Sunday, October 18, bringing together parishioners for an evening of faith, fellowship, cultural performances and community bonding under the theme “Faith, Family and Togetherness.” The celebration, which began at 4 p.m., reflected the unity and vibrant spirit of the parish community.

Cultural Programme Showcases Talent and Social Messages
The cultural programme was compered by Lizvita Rebecca D’Souza, while Hilda D’Souza hosted the formal stage programme. The celebrations began with a prayer song presented by the parish children, invoking God’s blessings on the gathering.

A skit presented by Valerian Noronha and his team highlighted the importance of respecting parents and caring for them in their old age. Stree Sanghatan members entertained the audience with a colourful dance performance.

Alban, Reena and Levan Fernandes presented a humorous and emotional skit depicting the lives of a blind husband and a mute wife whose household is visited by a parish priest. The parish youth, represented by ICYM and YCS, energised the gathering with a lively dance performance, followed by another skit presented by Anitha Alva and her team. The cultural programme concluded with a synchronised dance performance by the men of the parish. Snacks were served to the attendees after the performances.
Parish Leadership Highlights Community Development

The formal programme was attended by Parish Priest Rev. Fr. George Thomas D’Souza, Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues, Parish Pastoral Council Vice President CA Prithish Burton D’Sa, Secretary Jyothi D’Souza and 20 Commissions Coordinator Monica D’Souza.

Jyothi D’Souza welcomed the priests, religious sisters and parishioners. In his parish outlook address, CA Prithish Burton D’Sa expressed gratitude to the priests and religious who had served the parish over the years. He highlighted key developments, including the construction of the commercial complex, made possible through the support of Rev. Fr. George Thomas D’Souza, relatives of Rev. Fr. Charles Menezes, generous donors and parishioners who extended financial assistance through loans.

He also spoke about the development of the English-medium school and outlined the financial difficulties that had led to the closure of schools.

Rev. Fr. George Thomas D’Souza Felicitated
A special highlight of the programme was the felicitation of Parish Priest Rev. Fr. George Thomas D’Souza by members of the Parish Pastoral Council in recognition of his dedicated service to the parish.

In his felicitation address, CA Prithish Burton D’Sa commended Fr. George for his principled approach, discipline and forward-looking vision for the community.

In his presidential address, Fr. George reflected on the significance of Parish Day as an occasion to strengthen bonds among parishioners. He expressed the hope that the celebration would be organised at least once every two years to nurture unity and fellowship within the parish.

He stated that the parish comprises 769 families with a total of 3,332 members. Emphasising the importance of genuine faith and a life of service, he spoke about the values of simplicity and discipline instilled in him by his parents. He also appreciated the cooperation of parishioners, noting that their collective efforts had contributed to the high standard of liturgical celebrations at Moodubelle within the Udupi Diocese.

On this occasion, Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues announced that the YCS Team of St. Lawrence Parish, Moodubelle secured the first position in the competitions held at the YCS Yuva Samagam and the YCS Team was felicitated by Rev. Fr. George Thomas D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrgues and Vice President of the PPC CA Pritish Burton D’Sa.
Charitra Live Band Adds Musical Grandeur

As the formal programme concluded, Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues led the prayer before the meal, seeking God’s blessings and continued harmony within the parish community.

Monica D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of the organisers, performers, volunteers and parishioners who helped make the celebration a success.

The evening reached its musical high point with a live performance by Charitra, whose energetic beats and melodious songs drew enthusiastic participation from the audience. The performance transformed the church grounds into a lively celebration of music, dance and togetherness.

The festivities concluded with a fellowship dinner, bringing families and friends together in a spirit of gratitude and camaraderie.

Parish Day 2026 served as a meaningful celebration of the community’s shared faith, collective achievements and commitment to fellowship, reinforcing the spirit of unity among the 769 families of St. Lawrence Church, Moodubelle.