Even if you inspire hope in one person, your life has immense value: Bishop Saldanha
The Hindu
Mangaluru Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha on Thursday emphasised the power of hope and love and said hope does not disappoint. Life is the path of love. The highest hope in life is the message of Christmas, he said.
Mangaluru Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha on Thursday emphasised the power of hope and love and said hope does not disappoint. Life is the path of love. The highest hope in life is the message of Christmas, he said.
He was delivering the Christmas message at the celebrations organised by Alva’s Education Foundation in Moodbidri. Bishop Saldanha said: “Even if you inspire hope in just one person, your life has immense value. Jesus’ message urges us to live in unity and support those who are poor, oppressed, and troubled.”
He further said: “Christmas teaches us to live by truth and life. God became man for the good of all. By following him, humanity can aspire to divine grace. Jesus endured the cross to end sin and rose again, becoming immortal. Forgiveness, love, and mercy are the eternal messages of Jesus.”
The celebrations filled the Rathnakaravarni stage with joy, faith, and festivity. The programme featured a depiction of the birth of Jesus in a vibrant Godali scene, carol singing by students, appearance of Santa Claus, a Christmas tree adorned with lights, and distribution of cakes. Over 4,500 people gathered to experience the evening.
Foundation president M. Mohan Alva reflected on India’s unity in diversity, emphasising the need for harmony and goodwill. He said: “Christians have immensely contributed to education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and bridging social gaps. Their values of kindness, mercy, sacrifice, and love inspire peace, non-violence, and a life of goodwill.”
Onil D’Souza, priest of Moodubidire Corpus Christian Church, led a prayer. Belthangady Seon Ashram Trust’s U.C. Paulose and his wife Mary Paulose were honoured for their contribution to society and presented a cash award of ₹25,000.