Chaitanya, Shimoga, December 14, 2023: The Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society®, Shimoga organised Christmas celebration with Federation Leaders of 53 Streebandhu Women Federations formed by SMSSS. The programme began at 10.00 AM with prayer. After the formal welcome, the Director of Chaitanya discussed issues related to the strengthening of Self Help Groups and Federations. An elaborate evaluation of the Annual Day of SMSSS and Decennial Celebration of Streebandhu Vividhoddesha Souharda Sahakari Sangha Niyamitha held on 22 November 2023 was done. All the federation leaders in unison appreciated the programme and noted that the persons chosen for Chaitanyashri award were very apt people. Their contribution to the society is great. The participants also noted that the entire celebration was well planned and perfectly executed. Women in large numbers came on time and were seated till the end of the programme. The other major points discussed during the session was increasing the working capital and expanding the business in Streebandhu Sahakari and also increasing the number of shares by all the members.
After the initial business session, Dr Chandushree B. P., Obstetrics & Gynecology, Sarji Hospital Shimoga provided awareness on cancer. In detail she explained to the federation leaders about the causes of cancer, types of cancer, the available treatment, etc. If cancer is detected at an early stage, through proper medication cancer can be cured. Women were advised to undergo regular health checkups and also go for cancer screening. Self examination of one’s own body parts will also help one to know whether there are any symptoms of cancer.
The formal celebration began at 12.00 noon with the lighting of the lamp. Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the diocese of Shimoga and the President of SMSSS presided over the celebration. In his presidential address the Bishop explained the difference between avatar and incarnation. Christmas is giving. Jesus gave himself to the humanity. Chaitanya is celebrating Christmas everyday because it is also giving its service to the poor and marginalised everyday in different ways. Through various examples the true meaning of Christmas was explained to the participants.
A few spot games were conducted. The winners were given prizes. Singing of Christmas Carols added joy to the celebration. All the participants received Christmas gift and ½ kg Christmas cake from the organisation. Dinner was served to all the participants. The celebration ended with the expression of gratitude by the federation leaders. Mrs Mary Stella compered the programme. Mrs Theresa Sanctis welcomed everyone. Federation leaders numbering 102 participated in the programme.
