Jubilee Celebrations for Differently Abled Individuals Held in Udupi

Udupi, 12 March 2025: The Family Commission of the Udupi Diocese organised the Jubilee of Differently Abled Persons at the Anugraha Pastoral Centre, Kakkunje, on Sunday, 9 March. The event aimed to celebrate the talents of differently abled individuals and promote inclusivity within society. One of the distinguished guests was Esther D’Souza, Secretary of the Karnataka Regional Commission for the Differently Abled.  

Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese, emphasised the importance of nurturing the skills of differently abled individuals. He highlighted that they are not a burden to society but possess extraordinary abilities that, when encouraged, can lead to remarkable achievements. He cited the words of Pope Francis and stressed the need to instil mental strength in individuals with physical disabilities. Bishop Lobo also mentioned the diocesan efforts to provide quality education and access to government welfare schemes for differently abled children, ensuring their dignity and integration into mainstream society.  

MCC Bank President Mr. Anil Lobo underscored the necessity of creating opportunities rather than merely extending sympathy to differently abled individuals. He pointed out that many of their talents remain undiscovered due to a lack of encouragement and financial support and assured that MCC Bank is committed to supporting their growth and development.  

A special highlight of the event was the felicitation of Bishop Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo by the differently-abled community in honour of his 75th birthday and 25 years of service as a bishop.  

The celebration featured a variety of performances, including vibrant dance presentations by students of Maanasa Special School and the youth of Thottam Church, while Fr. Denis D'Sa, Public Relations Officer of the Diocese, enthralled the audience with soulful singing.  

All participating differently abled individuals were honoured with shawls and tokens of appreciation by Bishop Lobo and other clergy members. The celebration served as a platform to honour and encourage the extraordinary abilities of differently-abled individuals.

By Fr. Denis D'Sa