‘Gratitude Day’ Honours 36 Years of SMSSS’s Social Service Mission in Shimoga

Shimoga, August 13, 2025: The 36th Foundation Day of the Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society (SMSSS) was celebrated in splendour and grace at Chaitanya on Tuesday, 12 August 2025.

His Excellency Dr. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Shimoga and President of SMSSS, was warmly welcomed. The renewed Chaitanya building, the Centre for Social Action, was blessed by Bishop Serrao, accompanied by Msgr. Stany D’Souza, Vicar General; Fr Franklin D’Souza, Youth Director; and Fr Pius D’Souza, Director of SMSSS.

The Holy Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by the Bishop with 14 concelebrating priests, attended by SMSSS staff, former staff, and special invitees. In his homily, Fr. Simon Pinto spoke of the institute’s gratitude to God and the spiritual guidance that has shaped its progress.

A short video presentation recalled SMSSS’s contributions over the past 36 years, highlighting the roles of the late Dr. Ignatius Pinto (Founder), Dr. Gerard Isaac Lobo, and Dr. Serrao.

A stage programme was held in the quadrangle, where Fr. Pius D’Souza delivered the welcome address, and Msgr. Stanish S. D’Souza, Vicar General and Vice President of SMSSS, reflected on the centre’s evolution and commitment to social justice. Chief Guest Mr. Anand, a former staff member, shared how Chaitanya had given him purpose in life. The programme, titled “Gratitude Day,” honoured former directors and staff whose dedication laid SMSSS’s foundations.

Several former staff were warmly received and honoured, with Bishop Serrao acknowledging the institute’s contributions to education, self-employment, health, and more, while crediting various directors for shaping its vision. A video tribute showcased each director’s impact and the staff’s dedication. The Bishop then blessed and inaugurated the newly established Counselling Centre at Chaitanya.

A “Sharing and Caring” session allowed past and present staff to exchange memories, followed by cultural performances, dances, and inspiring work experience sharing by former staff, rounding off the celebrations.

For 36 years, SMSSS has been a pillar of hope, working in education, women’s empowerment, child welfare, rural development, and health. The Foundation Day reaffirmed its mission to serve with love, dignity, and purpose. As the day ended, one message was clear: gratitude is the seed of growth, and SMSSS thrives because of the lives it has touched—and those who have touched it in return.

Fr. Franklin D'Souza

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