Fr. Joe
emphasizes on importance of sports at Kripa’s annual party for special kids
Over
650 specially gifted children and physically challenged persons attended the
annual children party hosted by Kripa
Foundation at it’s Vasai centre near Mumbai. Held under the theme ‘Season of
Spreading Love’, the event was graced by Archbishop Felix Machado, Archbishop of
Vasai as the Chief Guest, Fr. Joseph H. Pereira, Founder Trustee of Kripa and
Friends of Kripa from various parts of India and
abroad.
In
his homily to mark the celebrations, Fr. Joe highlighted the significance of
sharing, amity and spreading love across communities. He noted how Jesus Christ
is an epitome of love and sharing adding that His message bears more relevance
now than ever before in history since modern society tends to be self-centered.
and called upon all privileged members of the
society to exert extra efforts towards alleviating social evils such as
poverty, hunger, illiteracy and disease through combined efforts.
Fr.
Joe thanked the various sponsors of the event, including
The Trustees H.P.L. Charitable Trust( Mumbai), Cadbury India Ltd,, Parle Agro,
TAJSATS, Yoga group -Mount Carmel Church, Bandra, and a large number of anonymous donors who had contributed generously
for the celebrations. Special guests included Mrs, Joy D'Souza, Mr & Mrs. Haroon and family (Goa), Ms. Yvonne Lawlor ( Ireland), Mr. Barry & Mrs, June O'Loughlin ( Ireland), Mrs Laura Rodrigues and Anna( Germany),who are
fondly called ‘Friends of Kripa’ and have supported the organization since the
last several years. The event was organized and coordinated by Bosco D’Souza,
National Program Director who also compered the proceedings and organised the party, along with Mozen H, Mr Stephen D'Souza, Mr. Ignatius Buthelo, patients and staff of Kripa Bandra and Vasai under the leadership of Fr Seraphine, Fr Cyril and Ms. Jean Pereira.
Children
from Kripa Dharavi, dressed in camouflage fatigues presented a dance while kids
from other participating institutions showcased their various talents such as
singing. Kripa staff led by Fr. Joe also joined the fun and frolic by dancing
with children with special needs and physically challenged persons. Santa
Claus ( Mr Johnson D'Souza- Bandra) made a special appearance at the party to dance with kids and adults
while giving away freebies to lucky ones.
Submitted by
Ashwin Honawar
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