Newskarnataka-Mangalore
Mangalore : The Centenary celebrations of Catholic Association of South Kanara (CASK), the oldest Catholic lay organization of south India kicked off on September 22, Sunday, with Rajasthan Governor Margaret Alva formally launching the programmes at a function held at the Milagres Hall.
Speaking on the occasion, Alva recollected the yeoman services of the Catholic community to the society . She said the need of the hour is to document the precious, art, culture and heritage of the Catholic community. Alva also emphasized the need for greater research in the field of art and culture.
On this occasion, Margaret Alva released a 400 page book ‘100 Year History of CASK and the Mangalorean Catholic Community’ authored by John Monteiro.
Union Minister for Transport, Road and Highways Oscar Fernandes said the Catholic community has contributed significantly to the society through its achievements in various fields including health care and education. He launched the CASK website on the occasion.
JR Lobo, MLA of Mangalore South suggested to have a platform which enables all Catholics to sit together and have a good discussion of the problems confronting the community, suggesting solutions and work towards solving the problems.
The function was blessed by Mangalore Bishop Rev. Fr Aloysius Paul D’Souza. He also unveiled the plaque of the centenary memorial office of CASK.Vivek Aranha, Chairman of Rosary Group, Pune, was also present as a chief guest. Dr. Derek Lobo, CASK President, Capt. John Prasad Menezes, Secretary and others were present.
On this occasion, as many as 100 children of 25 schools in DK and Udupi districts received scholarship amount of Rs 1000 each. A variety of cultural programmes were also organised.