Diocese of Mangalore & CODP disburses Education Aid to needy students and organizes SPARSHA awareness on Cancer and COVID 19
Mangaluru: August 29: Most Rev. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese disbursed financial aid to first grant of needy students. The programme was compered by Fr Oswald Monteiro, Director of CODP.
Fr Oswald first welcomed the Bishop and all students along with their parents who attended the programme. In his address to the gathering Fr. Oswald said that CODP, on behalf of Mangalore Diocese, disburses financial aid to needy students every year. Even though collection was poor, the Diocese has contributed to this cause.
Addressing the gathering, the Bishop said that the Catholic Church is of the poor and for the poor. The CODP of Mangaluru Diocese had organized Lenten campaign to help to the poor. Motivating the students to help other poor students by their personal contribution after they get jobs, he said, cheerful giver receives in hundred fold.”
Earlier, there was an awareness programme on COVID – 19 and Cancer. Awareness on COVID – 19 was given by Rev Fr Oswald Monteiro. Ms Shilpa D Souza, the coordinator of SPARSHA campaign took up a session on cancer awareness. She explained the signs and symptoms of cancer. She told the participants to give up tobacco, alcohol and junk food. Explanation was given to the participants regarding early detection of cancer. She advised to consume organic food, and also told to grow vegetables at their own garden.
Thereafter, the Bishop disbursed education aid amounting to Rs 2,57,500/- to around 53 applicants. Ver Rev Vijay Lobo, the Procurator of the Diocese was also on the dais. Mr Praveen, Mrs Philomena D Souza, Ms Osvita D Souza and Ms Veena D Souza of CODP assisted in distributing the cheques and vouchers to the needy students.
