Distribution of School Bags to 350 Poor Children: Spreading New year 2025 Joy Through Education:
"Education is the key to unlocking a brighter future." This Christmas, Vimukti Pothnal, brought joy and hope to 350 underprivileged children by distributing school bags in our targeted villages. For many children in these communities, the lack of basic school supplies often becomes a barrier to continuing their education. Their parents, who work as daily laborers, auto drivers, or domestic helpers, struggle to meet even basic needs. Some families have migrated for work, leaving children with relatives, further increasing the risk of school dropouts. Through this initiative, we provided proper school bags to children who previously carried their books in plastic bags. The joy on their faces and the pride they felt in receiving these gifts truly reflected the spirit of Christmas. These simple yet essential items are helping them stay motivated in their educational journey. So far, 350 children have benefited, ensuring they can focus on their studies without unnecessary hardships. "A little help, a little hope, and small acts of kindness can transform lives." Together, we’re empowering children with the tools to dream, learn, and build a brighter future.

TEACHERS BECAME CHILDREN : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
Teachers organized a wonderful programme on children’s day. School parliamentarians and Chief Guest Rev. Fr Arun Lobo were welcome by School band. Teachers performed variety of programmes, they became children on the stage which brought radiant smiles on the faces of children. All children were given gifts as a remembrance of this day. Chief guest voiced out that we need to have a child like attitude to learn always to become better human beings in the society. After the programme all children were served meals.

Vimukti Pothnal Spreads Christmas Joy Among the Poorest of the Poor
"For it is in giving that we receive." - St. Francis of Assisi
Vimukti Pothnal took a heartfelt initiative this Christmas octave on 30th December, 2024 to celebrate with the poorest of the poor, embracing the spirit of love, generosity, and inclusion. Often excluded from festive celebrations, these families were at the heart of ours, reminding us of the true essence of the season—sharing and caring for those in need. we visited the makeshift tents of migrant workers, who live under tarpaulin sheets, facing harsh conditions daily. These families, hailing from different states, work tirelessly on road construction projects, far from their homes and communities. Despite their struggles, they were warmly invited to join our Christmas program. The celebration began with a warm welcome and the cutting of a Christmas cake, symbolizing unity and joy. Each family received gifts of Christmas cake, sweets, and clothes, bringing smiles to their faces and hope to their hearts.

A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ASSISI CHILDREN : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
The Christmas celebration at our school was a joyous and memorable event filled with festive cheer. The day began with the melodious singing of carols, setting the perfect tone for the season of joy and togetherness. The highlight was a beautiful tableau performed by our Catholic teachers, portraying the Nativity scene with reverence and grace. Adding to the excitement, students delighted in lively Santa and angel dances, spreading joy and laughter among all present. The celebration also included heartfelt enactments of meaningful parables such as The Good Samaritan, The Sower of Seeds, The Prodigal Son, and The Ten Virgins. Each performance brought to life the timeless teachings of compassion, faith, and forgiveness. To make the day even more special, gifts were distributed to students, and sweets were handed out, sweetening their mouths and hearts. The event concluded with warm wishes and smiles, leaving everyone with cherished memories of the festive celebration.

LET’S GO TO THE SANDALWOOD CITY OF INDIA : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
St Francis of Assisi School organized the two-day tour to Sandalwood city, Mysore to Ancillary staff (drivers and aayas). On 22-12-2024 they visited places in the city such as; Chamundi Hills, Zoo, Palace, St Philomena Cathedral, KRS Dam and Brandavana Garden. Second day they enjoyed snow fall, water games and land games in GRS Fantasy Park.

SHARING THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS WITH NEIGHBOURHOOD : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
On 20th December, 2024 St Francis of Assisi school organized the sports day to Rajeev Nagar, Hudko colony Primary and Higher Primary Government school children. 65 children participated in the games, which was held in the Christalaya campus. Winners were awarded with prizes. Christmas gifts, Christmas cake and juice were distributed to all the children and the teachers of the school.

A HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ASSISI FAMILY : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
The Christmas celebration for teachers in the evening was a delightful and heartwarming event. The evening began with a beautiful tableau presented by the Catholic teachers, depicting the Nativity scene with grace and devotion. This was followed by an energetic dance performance and melodious carols that set a festive and cheerful mood. Adding to the excitement, a series of fun-filled games brought laughter and joy to everyone, making the evening lively and engaging. One of the highlights was the selection of the "Lucky Christmas Person," adding an element of surprise and thrill. The tradition of Secret Santa was cherished as teachers, drivers, and ayya aunties exchanged thoughtful gifts, fostering a spirit of sharing and togetherness. Our principal added a special touch by gifting each of us, making everyone feel valued and appreciated. The celebration ended on a sweet note, with delicious sweets being distributed, leaving a lasting impression of warmth and joy. It was a perfect evening filled with camaraderie, gratitude, and festive cheer!

A Trip to the City of Palaces and the Heritage City : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
St Francis of Assisi school (CISCE) organized the two-day tour to Mysore, the Cultural Capital of Karnataka for 168 children accompanied by 17 teaching staff. On 19th evening all boarded the train from Belagavi railway station and reached the beautiful city next day at 6am. After freshening up and having breakfast at Pushpaashram, Students proceeded to Chamundi Hills to have Darshana of Chamundeshwari Devi. All students visited the Garbagudi and offered their prayers. After that buses took the route to Zoo. Children were overwhelmed to see variety of trees, plants, birds, reptiles and animals. Although it was very long journey they never felt tired, greenery inside the zoo made our hearts to live always fresh and energetic. Once all were out from the zoo, lunch was served and then all of them walked towards the Fish Aquarium. Children were flabbergasted to see different kinds of fish. Afterwards, they visited the famous ‘Mysore Palace’. Whatever students heard and studied from the books about palace they could feel it in reality.

Annual Sports Meet 2024-25: Day Three : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
Although it was Sunday, all the students of St Francis of Assisi came with lots of enthusiasm and sporting spirit to participate in the events on last day. It looked like a working day rather than holiday. Students passion of the games soared to the sky. We are physically fit was the message from the students by participating on the third day. The events conducted were Book Balancing, Potato Race, Kangaroo Race, One Leg Race, Dumbbell Race, Lemon and Spoon Race, Hoops Race, 200M Running, Frog Race, 80M Running, Skipping, 100M Running, 400M Running, under 14 & 17 Boys and Girls category 5km Marathon in the country side, Shot Put, 1500M Running, 800M Running and Group Event Tug of War. The annual sports meet was concluded by giving away the medals for the winners and honouring the athletics with Champions who won the three Gold Medals.

Annual Sports Meet 2024-25: Day Two : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
All students from Nursery to X std channelized their energy into these events. Nursery to UKG students, Frog Race, Biscuit Eating, Filling the water, Ring Race, 100M Running, Sack Race, Kangaroo Race, Hoops Race, Skipping, Dumbbell Race, Book Balancing, 400M Running, 80M Running, 200M Running, Discus Throw, Javelin Throw and Short Put. Group Events, Volleyball, Relay, Throw Ball for girls were held. Students exhibited their sporting skills and won the appreciation from all their friends and teachers.

Annual Sports Meet 2024-25: Day One : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
Annual sports day was inaugurated by Rev. Fr Rajkishor Kindo on Friday, 15-11-2024. All students from Nursery to X std participated actively in this event. There were individual events as well as group events. For Nursery to UKG students, 50M Running, Blowing Balloons, Ring Race, Lemon and Spoon race, I std to IV std, 50M Running, 80M Running, Skipping, Book Balancing, Sack Race, 200M Running, Hoops Race, 600M Running, Frog Race, V std 100M Running, 100M Hurdles, Long Jump, High Jump, for boys and girls under 14 category, 200M Running, 100M Hurdles, Long Jump, High Jump, boys and girls under 17 category, 200M Running, 100M Hurdles, Long Jump, High Jump, group events, Football and Lagori only for girls were held. All children showed their sporting spirit and played a fair game.

ಅಸ್ಸಿಸಿ ಶಾಲೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ದೀಪಾವಳಿಯ ಕಲರವ
ಚಿಕ್ಕೋಡಿ : ಇಲ್ಲಿಯ ಸೇಂಟ್ ಫ್ರಾನ್ಸಿಸ್ ಆಫ್ ಅಸ್ಸಿಸಿ ಶಾಲೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಶನಿವಾರ ದಿನಾಂಕ 9/11/2024 ರಂದು ಸಾಯಂಕಾಲ ದೀಪಾವಳಿ ಹಾಗೂ ಕನ್ನಡ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವವನ್ನು ಸಡಗರದಿಂದ ಆಚರಿಸಲಾಯಿತು. ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮದ ಮುಖ್ಯ ಅತಿಥಿಗಳಾದ ಚಿಕ್ಕೋಡಿಯ ಸಲಗರೆ ಚಿಕ್ಕ ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆಯ ವೈದ್ಯರಾದ ಶ್ರೀಯುತ ಡಾ. ರಾಜೇಂದ್ರ ಸಲಗರೆ ಹಾಗೂ ಅವರ ಧರ್ಮಪತ್ನಿಯಾದ ಶ್ರೀಮತಿ ಡಾ. ಜಯಲಕ್ಷ್ಮೀ ಸಲಗರೆ ಅವರು ಮತ್ತು ಚಿಕ್ಕೋಡಿಯ ನ್ಯಾಯಾಲಯದ ಸೀನಿಯರ್ ಸಿವಿಲ್ ಜಡ್ಜರಾದ ಶ್ರೀ ಹರೀಶ್ ಪಾಟೀಲ ಅವರು ಮತ್ತು ಶಾಲೆಯ ಪ್ರಾಂಶುಪಾಲರಾದ ಫಾದರ್ ಜೇಸನ್ ಫರ್ನಾಂಡಿಸ್ ಅವರು ಜ್ಯೋತಿ ಬೆಳಗಿಸುವುದರ ಮೂಲಕ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮಕ್ಕೆ ಚಾಲನೆ ನೀಡಲಾಯಿತು. ನಂತರ ಪ್ರಾರ್ಥನಾ ಗೀತೆಯ ನೃತ್ಯದೊಂದಿಗೆ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮವು ಆರಂಭವಾಯಿತು. ತದನಂತರ ಲಕ್ಷ್ಮೀ ದೇವಿಗೆ ಪೂಜೆಯನ್ನು ನೆರವೇರಿಸಲಾಯಿತು. ದೀಪಾವಳಿ ಹಬ್ಬದ ಇತಿಹಾಸಕ್ಕೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಿಸಿದಂತೆ ಹಾಗೂ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯೋತ್ಸವದ ಚರಿತ್ರೆಗೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಿಸಿದಂತೆ ಹಬ್ಬಗಳ ಮಹಿಮೆಯನ್ನು ಬಿಂಬಿಸುವ ಹಾಡುಗಳಿಗೆ ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳು ಕಣ್ಮನ ಸೆಳೆಯುವ ನೃತ್ಯಗಳನ್ನು ಪ್ರದರ್ಶಿಸಿದರು. ಮುಖ್ಯ ಅತಿಥಿಗಳಾದ ಡಾ. ರಾಜೇಂದ್ರ ಸಲಗರೆ ಅವರು ಮಾತನಾಡಿ ನಮ್ಮ ಭಾರತೀಯ ಹಬ್ಬಗಳು ವಿಶಿಷ್ಟ ಹಾಗೂ ಅರ್ಥಪೂರ್ಣವಾಗಿದ್ದು, ನಮ್ಮ ದೇಶದ ಜನರ ಜೀವನ, ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿ ಹಾಗೂ ಪರಂಪರೆಯಯನ್ನು ಉಳಿಸಿಕೊಂಡು ಮುಂದಿನ ಪೀಳಿಗೆಗೆ ಕೊಂಡೊಯ್ಯುವಂಥವು ಎಂದು ಹೊಗಳಿದರು. ತದನಂತರ ಸಿಡಿಮದ್ದುಗಳ ಸಂಭ್ರಮದಲ್ಲಿ ಅಸ್ಸಿಸಿ ಶಾಲೆಯ ಎಲ್ಲ ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳು ಅತ್ತ್ಯುತ್ಸಾಹದಿಂದ ಪಾಲ್ಗೊಂಡು ಪಟಾಕಿ ಸಿಡಿಸಿ ಸಂಭ್ರಮಿಸಿದರು. ಅಂದು ದೀಪಾವಳಿಯ ಅಂಗವಾಗಿ 1 ರಿಂದ 5 ನೇ ತರಗತಿಯ ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳಿಗೆ ದೀಪಗಳ ಅಲಂಕಾರದ ಸ್ಪರ್ಧೆ ಹಾಗೂ 6 ರಿಂದ 10 ನೇ ತರಗತಿಯ ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳಿಗೆ ರಂಗೋಲಿ ಸ್ಪರ್ಧೆಗಳನ್ನು ಏರ್ಪಡಿಸಲಾಗಿತ್ತು. ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳು ಈ ಸ್ಪರ್ಧೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಭಾಗವಹಿಸಿ ದೀಪಗಳನ್ನು ಅಲಂಕರಿಸಿ, ಮನಸೆಳೆಯುವ ಸುಂದರ ರಂಗೋಲಿ ಚಿತ್ರಗಳನ್ನು ಅರಳಿಸಿದ್ದರು. ಅಸ್ಸಿಸಿಯ ಮಹಾದ್ವಾರದ ಬಳಿಯ ದಾರಿಯು ಬಣ್ಣ ಬಣ್ಣದ ರಂಗೋಲಿಯ ಚಿತ್ರಗಳಿಂದ ಹಾಗೂ ಸಭಾ ಭವನವು ದೀಪಗಳ ಅಲಂಕಾರದಿಂದ ಶೃಂಗಾರಗೊಂಡಿತ್ತು. ಒಟ್ಟಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಅಂದು ಅಸ್ಸಿಸಿ ಶಾಲೆಯ ಪ್ರಾಂಗಣವು ದೀಪಗಳ ಬೆಳಕಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಹಾಗೂ ರಂಗೋಲಿಯ ಚಿತ್ತಾರಗಳಿಂದ ಕಂಗೊಳಿಸುತ್ತಿತ್ತು. ಶಾಲೆಯ ಪ್ರಾಂಶುಪಾಲರಾದ ಫಾದರ್ ಜೇಸನ್ ಫರ್ನಾಂಡೀಸ್ ಹಾಗೂ ಫಾದರ್ ಸ್ಟೆನಿಸ್ ಲೋಪಿಸ್ ಮತ್ತು ಶಾಲೆಯ ಎಲ್ಲ ಶಿಕ್ಷಕ-ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿ ವರ್ಗ, ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ಪಾಲಕರು ಉಪಸ್ಥಿತರಿದ್ದರು.

A DAY OF THANKS GIVING WITH GOOD SPIRITS : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
St Francis of Assisi School celebrated principal Fr Jeson Fernandez birthday along with Halloween day. Students dressed up with different types of costumes like witches, vampires, superheroes, ghosts, famous characters from movies, books and escorted principal to the stage along with school band and flower girls. It was a fun and good scare to see the ghosts in the Assisi campus. It helped many students to drive away their fear about evil spirits and to welcome positive spirit in their life. With short programme students and Assisi staff wished their principal all good things in his life. The birthday ended on distribution of sweets and serving lunch.

St. Francis of Assisi, a paragon of simplicity and humility : ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL Chikodi
Mahatma Gandhi, the father of our nation deeply admired St. Francis of Assisi's principles and ideals. Gandhi saw St. Francis as a symbol of peace, compassion, and simplicity, and believed that having more individuals with similar values could bring about transformative change. St. Francis of Assisi, a paragon of simplicity and humility, hails from the quaint village of Assisi, yet his exemplary life has left an indelible mark on the world. Although he departed this earthly realm centuries ago, his legacy endures in the hearts of millions globally. Renowned for his universal compassion, St. Francis embraced all beings as kin, from the smallest creature to his fellow humans. His profound commitment to preserving the harmony between nature and humanity has earned him the esteemed title of "Patron Saint of Ecology." We, the students, staff, and management, are deeply grateful to be under the benevolent patronage of St. Francis of Assisi, whose inspiring ideals continue to guide us in our pursuit of environmental stewardship and humanitarian values.

Sharing the Joy of Christmas: Vimukti Distributes 50 Godrej Wardrobes to Sponsored Children’s Families: Vimukti Pothnal
"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." – Winston Churchill
Vimukti Pothnal celebrated the spirit of Christmas by reaching out to 50 sponsored families in the surrounding villages, spreading hope and joy during this festive season. Recognizing the challenges faced by many of these families, especially the lack of proper storage spaces for their belongings, Vimukti provided each family with a Godrej wardrobe as a Christmas gift. These thoughtful gifts were a practical solution to an immediate need, and they symbolized love, care, and solidarity—the true essence of Christmas. Most of these families, often struggling with daily hardships, expressed their heartfelt gratitude for this meaningful gesture, which brought immense happiness and relief to their lives. The distribution program was successfully organized with the unwavering support of Vimukti staff and volunteers, ensuring a smooth and transparent process. This act of giving not only addressed a basic necessity but also reinforced the values of compassion and humanity that Vimukti upholds.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION IN ST CLARE CHURCH, AKULUTO - NAGALAND
St Clare Catholic Church celebrated Christmas on 24th December 2024 with the Vigil mass celebrated by Fr Stephen Dsouza. All the Parishioners gathered in the church at 6.00 pm and began the Christmas celebration with the singing of Christmas Carols. Fr Stephen in his homily beautifully narrated the meaning of Christmas and called everyone to become like Jesus. After the mass Fr Stephen and Br Edmund sang Konkani, Kannada and English Christmas Carols. On this occasion Br Edmund conducted Tambula game and some other funny games in the church premise to make the Christmas celebration memorable one. Christmas morning mass was celebrated at 10 am by the Parish Priest Fr Stephen Dsouza. In the sermon he emphasized on the theme of Humility of Jesus. The community inorder to make the celebration joyful arranged fellowship meal in the Church premise.

CONCLUDING OF ACADEMIC YEAR 2024 AND RELEASING OF NEWSLETTER WAVES OF ST CLARE, AKULUTO – NAGALAND
St Clare management concluded the academic year 2024 with the declaring of the results on 7th and 14th of December 2024. Inview of the ending of the Academic year St Clare management organized a Pre - Christmas celebration on 13th December evening at 5 pm for all the teachers. Br Edmund Mughavito conducted several interesting games inorder add joy to the celebration. Fr Stephen Dsouza in his Christmas message beautifully explained the meaning of Christmas and the reason for the birth of Christ. On this occasion a Christmas meal was served to all the teachers. On this occasion the Newsletter Waves of St Clare Akuluto Nagaland was released by Fr Stephen Dsouza through the digital platform. Newsletter includes all the activities that are conducted by St Clare institution from January 2024 to December 2024.

Vimukti Christmas Celebration Brings Joy to 100 Underprivileged children and their families:
On December 22, 2024, Vimukti Charitable Trust hosted a joyful Christmas celebration at its Pothnal premises, bringing cheer to 100 underprivileged children and their families from nearby villages. The event began with a warm welcome by Mr. Arogyappa and a heartfelt prayer service, setting a festive tone. The highlight was the distribution of thoughtfully curated gift packages, filling the children’s faces with radiant smiles. Volunteers and staff ensured a seamless event, fostering a sense of belonging and hope for the families. The day concluded with gratitude and joy, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas—love, unity, and giving.

Vimukti Celebrates Christmas with Migrant Families-“In the poor and outcast, we see Christ’s face; by loving & helping the poor, we love& serve CHRIST- say Pope Francis.
In a heartwarming gesture of inclusion and compassion, Vimukti Pothnal celebrated Christmas with migrant families on December 23, 2024. Recognizing that migrant workers are often excluded from community celebrations, Vimukti made it a priority to bring the joy of the season to these hardworking families. The celebration began with visits to the tents of migrant workers, where Vimukti staff warmly invited them to join the program. The families, residing in makeshift shelters of tarpaulin sheets, are employed in road construction and have traveled across states in search of work. The program commenced with a welcoming note, followed by the ceremonial cutting of the Christmas cake, symbolizing unity and togetherness. Families enjoyed delicious Christmas cake and sweets, which brought smiles to young and old alike. The highlight of the day was a sumptuous meal shared among all, fostering a sense of community and belonging. To make the event even more special, various lucky games were organized, bringing laughter and excitement. Winners were awarded prizes and gifts, spreading happiness and festive cheer among the families. Through this initiative, Vimukti reaffirmed its mission of supporting marginalized communities and ensuring that no one feels excluded during the festive season. The celebration was a true embodiment of the Christmas spirit—spreading love, joy, and hope to those who need it most.

News Archive

  Holy Trinity Province of Karnataka   

On 8 December 2008 the General Definitory by its Decree Prot. No. 00999/98 constituted and declared established the Most Holy Trinity Province of Karnataka. By the same Decree the General Definitory appointed Br. Vincent Gabriel Furtado as the new Provincial Minister, Br. John Baptist Sequeira as the first Definitor and Provincial Vicar, Br. Patrick Crasta, Edwin Colaco and Rudolf D'Souza as the 2, 3, and 4 Definitors respectively.