Newskarnataka – Mangalore

Mangalore :Twenty one couples hailing from different parts of the Mangalore diocese on sunday May 4 entered into wedlock during the 40th mass marriage ceremony held at the Rosario Cathedral.

This is the mass marriage organised by the society of St Vincent De-Paul (SVP) of the cathedral. Bishop of Mangalore Rev Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza was the main celebrant at the ceremony solemnized the nuptials.

MLA J R Lobo, who was the chief guest urged the couples to strengthen the bond of marriage and uphold familial values. He said mutual understanding was the key to a successful and blissful marriage.

John D’Silva compered the programme. Parish priest of Rosario Fr J B Crasta welcomed the gathering.

Harish D’Souza Panja and Stella D’Souza spoke spoke on behalf of all the couples.

Couples from as far as Hassan, Kundapur, Raichur, Manjeshwar, Bangalore, Dakshina Kannada, Kasargod and Udupi were at the ceremony.

Maurice Monteiro Secretary of SSVP rendered vote of thanks.

Each couple was presented with dress materials, household articles and a fixed deposit of Rs 5,000. Free lunch, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, was served for 60 guests per couple. The total cost per couple is roughly Rs 16,000, which is realized from contributions from donors and philanthropists. The mass wedding is always held in the first week of May.