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Chitradurga, Hiriyur, September 10, 2023: Diocese of Shimoga dedicated 2023 year as "Woman and Girl Child year". Diocese has organised various programmes in this regard. Bishop Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Diocese of Shimoga had asked all the Parishes to celebrate this day on September 10th. Our Lady of Assumption Church, Hiriyur, Chitradurga District celebrated "Woman and Girl Child year" meaningfully on September 10th.

Parish Priest Fr Franklin D'Souza celebrated Holy Eucharist at 8am. He preached a homily on "Woman and Girl Child". He narrated the role of a woman biblically. He spoke about, some of the courageous women from the Bible. How they inspired others through their courageous faith. He also spoke on today's condition of Girl child and women. He said woman is known for Prayer, love, courage, service and sacrifice. He gave the example of Mother Mary. He invited faithful to respect and honour them in our day today lives. Then he prayed a special prayer for the faithful.

After the Holy Eucharist at 10am programme was organised at Church Hall. Parish Priest Fr Franklin D'Souza was the president of the program and Sr. Metty Mathew & Sr. Elsamma, superiors of both the convents were the guests. Mrs. Madala Maria, President of Women Association and her team was in the Dais.

Programme began with Prayer Song by "Parish Women Association", led by Mrs.Smitha, Mrs. Savita, Mrs. Leena and Mrs. Sheeba.

Then there was lighting of the Lamp by the guests, through which programme was officially inaugurated. Fr Franklin D'Souza led a prayer of blessing. Then a short prayer service was held by the women.

Mrs. Stella Olivera officially welcomed the President, guests and the audience. Mrs. Leena Suresh gave the inaugural Speech.

At 10:30am Breakfast was served for all.

After the breakfast at 11am programme continued with prayer dance and then the

President and guests honoured the women of 70 and above age with shawl and a gift.

Mrs. Angela Mary and Mrs. Patricia spoke in behalf of the elders. Sr. Metty Matthew incharge of Parish Women Association gave a meaningful message for the women and girls.

Women Association President Mrs. Madala Maria spoke from heart, since she is also a ward counselor, she told when we face society courageously we can achieve anything in life.

Then followed the cultural programmes and games for the women and girls. After which Fr Franklin D'Souza distributed the prizes and spoke on the day's program. He said that today is a joyous day for our parish from kids to elderly all came together first time to celebrate "Woman and Girl Child day". He spoke on the importance of the woman and Girl Child as they are gift from God. He said that with prayer and faith we need to face the situation and should never ever give up in life.

Mrs. Monica thanked the dignitaries, gathering and all those who contributed for the success of the

Mrs. Smitha and Ms. Anusha was the Emcees. Total number of Women and girls attended were 150.

Lunch was served for everyone.

Women Office Bearers 2023 are;

President: Madala Maria
Vice President: Monica
Secretary: Christy Joanita (Sheeba)
Joint Secretary: Leena
Treasurer: Smitha
Liturgy: Manjula Joseph

Animator: Sr. Metty Mathew

Director: Fr Franklin D’Souza

Committee for the Woman and Girl Child year members are;

1. Madala Maria
2. Sheeba
3. Monica
4. Leena
5. Stella Mary
6. Madhura
7. Meghana
8. Savita
9. Smitha
10. Margaret Sheela
11. Manjula Joseph

Animator: Sr. Metty Mathew

Director: Fr Franklin D’Souza