Mangalore: The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of its Centennial Programme, an event that brought together distinguished dignitaries, members, and well-wishers to celebrate a hundred years of dedicated service to society. The inaugural ceremony was held at Bishops House, Mangalore with much fervour and solemnity, reflecting the spirit and legacy of SSVP’s compassionate mission.
The event was graced by several eminent personalities, including Chief Guest Rev Fr Faustine Lobo, Director of Fr Mullers’ Medical College and Institutions; Mr Luvi Pinto, President of Maand Sobhan; CA Valerian Almeida, Vice President of KCO Abu Dhabi; Rev Fr Flavian Lobo, Spiritual Advisor, SSVP; Mr Joe Coelho, President, SSVP; Mr Ligory Fernandes, Secretary, SSVP; Mr Clerence Machado, Treasurer, SSVP; and Mrs Philomena Menezes, Chairperson, Centennial Committee, SSVP. Their presence lent grandeur and significance to the occasion.
The proceedings commenced with an invocation, invoking blessings for the success of the centennial journey. Mr Joe Coelho, President of SSVP, delivered the welcome speech, wherein he elaborated on the Society’s commitment to following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ. He outlined the Centennial Projects, with a special emphasis on ‘SHIKOP’—an initiative designed to provide educational support to students from families adopted by SSVP. Mr Coelho emphasised both the necessity of this project and the importance of mobilising resources to ensure its success.
A key highlight of the event was the release of the Centennial Jubilee Theme Song by Mr Luvi Pinto, President of Maand Sobhan. The theme song, penned and composed by renowned poet Mr Llyod Thocode, resonated with the audience and captured the ethos of the centennial celebrations. Mr Thocode was felicitated by Mr Pinto, who, in his address, lauded the noble services rendered by SSVP members and encouraged them to continue their selfless work.
Rev Fr Faustine Lobo, Chief Guest, released a short documentary promo that showcased SSVP’s impactful journey and future aspirations. In his speech, Fr Lobo urged the community to prioritise the education of children from underprivileged backgrounds, highlighting the SHIKOP project’s role in capacity building and empowerment. He commended SSVP’s commitment to fostering self-sufficiency among the less fortunate.
Rev Fr Flavian Lobo, Spiritual Advisor, SSVP, released the appeal for the Souvenir intended for publication during the Centennial Closing Ceremony. He expressed heartfelt appreciation for SSVP’s unwavering service and imparted his blessings, encouraging the members to continue their endeavours with renewed enthusiasm and dedication.
CA Valerian Almeida, Vice President of KCO Abu Dhabi, launched the Entry Pass for the much- anticipated “DHABAZO” Konkani cultural evening. The event, set to be performed by popular singer Mr Nihal Tauro on 07/12/2025 at Kulshekar Church Ground, promises to be a vibrant celebration of Konkani heritage. Entry passes were distributed to the gathering, and Mr Almeida conveyed his best wishes for the cultural evening’s grand success.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mrs Philomena Menezes, Chairperson of the Centennial Committee, SSVP. She expressed gratitude to all guests, supporters, and participants for making the inauguration a memorable and meaningful event.
The Centennial Programme inauguration stands as a testament to SSVP’s century-long legacy of service, compassion, and social upliftment. The Society remains committed to its founding principles as it embarks on its next century of transformative action.
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