Mysuru, Dec 19: The Konkani Christian Association (KCA) of Mysuru celebrated Christmas on Sunday, December 17 at their prominent Konkan Bhavan, Opposite Valmiki Bhavan, Vijayanagar 2nd stage, Mysuru.

The programme began with the holy mass solemnised by Capuchin Priest Fr Santosh Naveen D’Souza concelebrated with eight priests the Konkani mass with great devotion and reverence at 4 pm which was followed by the Christmas celebration.

In his Christmas message, Fr Santosh stated that "let the celebration not only be an external one by hanging stars around our house but also be an internal change by being like bright stars to all around us."

The Christmas cake was cut by the association president John William D’Souza in the presence of all the members of the managing committee and the gathering thus commencing the Christmas festivity.

The association extended monetary support of Rs 50,000 to ODP’s cancer patient project. An ex-serviceman who is suffering from cancer was rendered help of Rs 25,000. A labourer was given Rs 25,000 as charity. Educational Aid was also provided to a few students.

On the occasion, the KCA honoured 27 ex-servicemen who had rendered self less service over several years of milestone achievement filled with commitment, devotion, courage, absolute loyalty and patriotism for our country be it in the Army, Navy or Air Force. They were felicitated with a memento, shawl and garland. Konkani youth entertained the audiences with their melodious and synchronising carols.

Joyce Sequeira, general secretary of KCA welcomed the gathering. Treasurer Anil Saldanha proposed the vote of thanks. Vincent D’Souza compered the programme. Stany Lobo, Meena Dias, Pramila Monis, Clifford D’Souza also participated in the festivities.

Konkani residents of Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts attended the party, which concluded with a festal dinner provided by the association.