Chaitanya, Shimoga, December 20, 2022: Christmas celebration invites us to share the Joy of Christmas with everyone who is dear to this. The Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society (R), Shimoga shared the Joy of Christmas in a unique way by inviting all the service providers to come together on 20 December 2022 at 6.30 PM. A unique celebration "Christmas with Service Providers" brought together dignitaries, and others who provide various services to the organization in different ways. People from various departments, advocates, bank officials, people who provide day to day services like postman, courier service, media personnel and the neighbours. Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ, the Bishop of Shimoga and the President of SMSSS presided over the celebration. The esteemed presence and the message of Ma.Ni.Pra. Abhinava Channabasava Mahaswamigalu, Sadananda Shivayogashrama, Moolegadde Math added grandeur to the celebration. Mr Mohammad Ilias Shek, Principal, Nasa Shaheen Independent PU College, Shimoga was the chief guest. Mr Rajanna Sankannanavar, Member Secretary, DLSA, Shimoga, Mr Manoharan, ASI, Tunga Police Station, Shimoga, Mr K. P. Shripal, Advocate were the special invitees.
After the prayer song, Rev. Fr Clifford Roshan Pinto, the Director in his keynote address noted that since the past 3 years SMSSS is organizing Christmas celebration with different groups of people. This year we are organizing Christmas with all you who are directly involved with our work in different ways. He also welcomed the dignitaries and the all the invitees.
All the speakers highlighted the contribution of Christian community to the Society and noted that SMSSS is doing an extraordinary service to the society by catering to the needs of the poor and marginalized. The service of the organization during the floods in 2019 and the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 is extraordinary. The organization has reached to each and every corner of the three civil districts, Shimoga, Chitradurga and Davanagere during the pandemic and supported the neediest families. The concern shown to the police personnel during the pandemic lockdown was highlighted. The contribution of the Christian community in the fields of Education, Health and Social Work is irreplaceable.
Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ explained the true meaning of Christmas in the present context. He noted that God desiring to dwell among his people became man. Through his life and action Jesus has shown to us the true significance of service. This organization by celebrating Christmas with people like you who are directly associated with the organization is living the true spirit of Christmas. Through education support to 1600 children and through its direct interaction with around 20,000 women of all faiths this organization is spreading the message that all of us belong to one religion.
The director conducted a few lucky games. All the participants received gifts from the organization. Cutting and sharing of Christmas cakes and singing of Christmas Carols increased joy and happiness. All the participants shared the festive dinner. The invites expressed their gratitude and words of appreciation for organizing the celebration and bringing people of different professions and services together under one roof. Mrs Asha C and Mrs Shabab Banu compered the program. Mrs Jyothi BC proposed the vote of thanks.
