The 14th of December 2024 was a wonderful day of celebration for UCDC and all those associated with it, as it celebrated its Annual Day and Christmas Celebration in St. Theresa’s Hall, Bandra. The theme was rightly chosen as “UCDC Parivar Utsav 2024-25” to have it as a family celebration. The backdrop was beautifully decorated depicting this theme. The colour chosen for the occasion was blue.
The celebration began with UCDC Anthem followed by prayer dance.
The dignitaries consisting of the Chief Guest, Ms. Veena Gidwani, Fr. Lawrence Correa, UCDC Director, Fr. Cosmos Ekka, the Programme Co-ordinator of UCDC, Fr. Jolly Mudakkampurathu, Fr. Savio Rodrigues, Fr. James Uravil, Fr. Melroy Mascarenhas, Sr. Pushpa, were invited to the stage and were greeted with bouquets of flowers.
The Director, Fr. Lawrence Correa, while welcoming and greeting everyone present, extended our heartfelt gratitude and warm wishes to each one and reminded that the season is a time to reflect on the blessings we have received and renew our commitment to live in peace and harmony and build a brighter future for the children we serve. He also had a word of appreciation to the parents, and to our generous donors and well-wishers for their continuous support to provide education, care and opportunities to those who need them most.
Thereafter, the little children from our Balwadi and boys from 1st to 4th standards sang beautifully to the delight of the audience. The little children from the Centre entertained the audience with beautiful songs and dances. The people in the hall marveled at the ability and presentation by these children.
Thereafter, the Chief Guest of the day, Miss Veena Gidwani, addressed the audience. She appreciated the work done by UCDC, and the various programmes and activities geared towards uplifting the marginalized. She assured UCDC that she can assist in improving public relations, as she was the Chief of Madison, a large Public Relations Company, earlier.
The entertainment continued thereafter with dances by the Junior and Senior KG children, by parents and by the UCDC staff. The highlight of the day was the fashion show by Adult Literacy students.
The photography and video was ably managed by Fr. Cosmos and his youth team. After the vote of thanks by Ms. Winnie Fernandes and the prayer before meals by Fr. Jerome D’Souza, the buffet was declared open. Every child was given a gift to carry home as a token of love and remembrance.
