Mysore Diocese Celebrates Christmas with Differently Abled Children and Prison Ministry

Mysore, December 17, 2024: The Mysore Diocesan Commissions for the Differently Abled and Prison Ministry India organized a grand Christmas celebration on December 15, 2024, at the Catholic Center Hall, Bannimantap, Mysore. The event, which brought together over 100 differently abled children, their parents, caretakers, and members of the prison ministry, began with a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Bernard Blasius Moras, Apostolic Administrator of the Mysore Diocese. The celebration aimed to foster inclusivity and spread the Christmas spirit through cultural programs, gift distribution and inspiring addresses.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, differently abled children from Mercy Convent, Montfort School, Sneha Kiran Spastic Society and Spandana Special School captivated the audience with vibrant cultural performances. Adding to the festive spirit, children from Divya Krupa, Vidya Jyoti School and postulants from St. Anne’s Luzern performed prayer dances and melodious Christmas carols, filling the hall with joy.

Archbishop Bernard Moras distributed gifts to all differently abled children, generously sponsored by St. Joseph’s Nursing College faculty and M/s Lunars Company. In his address, he emphasized the Catholic Church’s commitment to inclusivity and the importance of cherishing children of all abilities, drawing inspiration from Pope Francis’s teachings. This event marked a milestone as the first large-scale Christmas celebration for differently abled children in the Mysore Diocese.

The Chief Guest, Ms. Esthelle D’Souza, Secretary of the Commission for the Differently Abled in Karnataka, shared her inspiring personal story of raising a differently abled child amidst societal challenges, offering hope and support to parents present.

The event also recognized the contributions of the Prison Ministry. Br. Jayaprakash, Superior General of DDS, was felicitated by Archbishop Moras for his dedicated service. Coordinators from prison ministry units in Mysore, Nanjangud, K.R. Nagar, Chamarajanagar and Madikeri presented reports on their impactful work, underscoring the Church’s commitment to marginalized communities.

The event was attended by prominent diocesan officials, including Monsignor Alfred Mendonsa, Fr. Joseph Marie, Fr. Sebastian and Fr. Thomas Baros, among others.

By Fr. Sudeep Paul