Udupi: As part of the Udupi Diocese's 2025 jubilee year celebrations, a special initiative has been launched to build houses for the poor. The diocese plans to build 52 houses, one in each of the 52 churches under its jurisdiction.
A foundation stone-laying ceremony took place at St Ann's Church, Thottam, for a new home being built for a poor family in the church's jurisdiction on Wednesday. The ceremony was led by Bishop Rev Dr Francis Serrao of the Shivamogga Diocese, who blessed the foundation stone.
In his address, Bishop Rev Francis Serrao said, "In this world, we witness various forms of charity. We see people donating in the form of material goods, organ donation, and even donating their bodies after death. Each of these charitable acts is dear to God."
"The charitable work of building a house for a poor family at Thottam St Ann's Church is a commendable example of selfless giving. Our ancestors lived together like one big family and helped those in need. Today, we are spreading the same message by helping a needy person in our community," he said, appreciating the initiative.
Parish priest of the church Rev Denis D'Sa said that having one's own home is essential for a peaceful life. However, many people today are forced to live in rented houses due to financial constraints.
D'Sa announced that he handed over a sum of Rs 1 lakh to the bishop for the construction of houses for the poor. Additionally, he also handed over Rs 50,000 to the Kota Church. He revealed that during his 60th birthday, he promised to contribute an equal amount to the church's fund for building houses for the poor, matching the amount collected by the church members.
As part of the initiative, Thomas and Valeriana Noronha donated five cents of their land for the construction of a house for a poor family. Bishop Rev Dr Francis Serrao honoured Thomas and Valeriana Noronha.