Udupi: The Udupi Diocese Family Commission recently organized a heartwarming and inclusive celebration for specially abled individuals as part of its Jubilee program. Held at the Kakkunje Anugraha Pastoral Center, the event served as a beacon of hope, recognizing the exceptional talents of people with disabilities and fostering a spirit of inclusivity.
Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of the Udupi Diocese, inaugurated the celebration, emphasizing the need to encourage and uplift individuals with disabilities. “Everyone should support and inspire people with disabilities, as they possess extraordinary talents that can flourish with the right opportunities,” he remarked. Bishop Lobo also reinforced Pope Francis’s call to provide mental strength to those facing physical challenges. At the diocesan level, a dedicated committee has been formed to ensure that children with disabilities receive quality education and benefit from government schemes, enabling them to lead dignified lives.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, Anil Lobo, President of MCC Bank, stressed the importance of offering opportunities for specially abled individuals to showcase their skills rather than merely extending compassion. “We must change our perspective and recognize individuals with special needs as one of us. Sensitivity and inclusivity are key to their empowerment,” he stated.
A special moment of the event was the felicitation of Bishop Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo on his 75th birthday and the silver jubilee of his Episcopal ordination. The specially abled attendees were also honored with shawls and tokens of appreciation by the Bishop and other dignitaries, highlighting their resilience and talents.
The event was further enlivened with vibrant dance performances and soulful singing by children from Manasa Special School and the youth from Thottam Church, under the guidance of Fr. Denis D’Sa. Their performances infused the gathering with joy and energy, symbolizing the boundless potential of every individual.
Distinguished guests gracing the occasion included Esther D’Souza, Secretary of the Karnataka Regional Commission for Persons with Disabilities; Fr. Vincent Crasta, Director of Anugraha Rehabilitation Center; and Dr. Fr. Roshan D’Souza, Director of the Family Commission. Leslie Aroza, Director of the Family Commission, skillfully compered the program and delivered the vote of thanks.
The event stood as a testament to the Diocese’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive society, where every individual, regardless of ability, is valued, celebrated, and empowered.