Shepherd of Grace: Celebrating 75 Years of Blessings of Most Rev. Dr Henry Dsouza

Mangalore, Karnataka – January 2: The Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education hosted a grand celebration titled “Shepherd of Grace: 75 Years of Blessings of Most Rev. Dr Henry Dsouza” at its premises in Bajjodi, Mangalore. The event, held at 6:00 PM, marked a significant milestone in honouring the life and legacy of Most Rev. Dr Henry Dsouza.

The event also included heartfelt felicitations by prominent individuals who have witnessed and been inspired by Bishop Henry’s legacy. Speeches were delivered by Roy Castelino, PRO, Diocese of Mangalore, Trustee Sandesha Foundation, Kishoo Barkur, a celebrated Konkani poet, lyricist and writer, President Kavitha Trust,  J.R. Lobo, Former MLA,  Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, Rev. Fr Ivan Pinto, Trustee, Sandesha, and Anitha, representing the alumni of Sandesha. Each speaker highlighted the Bishop’s visionary leadership, his unwavering commitment to service and the lasting impact he has made on countless lives.

The occasion featured a variety of cultural performances, tributes and reflections on Bishop Henry Dsouza’s decades of selfless service and inspirational leadership. A highlight of the event was the release of a book titled “Faith and Service: A Tribute to Bishop Henry Dsouza’s Legacy,” edited by Rev. Fr Sudeep Paul MSFS, Director, Sandesha Foundation. The book was officially released by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore and the first copy was ceremoniously handed over to Bishop Henry Dsouza. The book begins with a series of heartfelt felicitations—expressions of admiration, gratitude and love from those who have been blessed to know him. The book also includes a succinct biographical sketch that takes readers through the defining moments of Bishop Henry’s life—from his humble beginnings to his extraordinary leadership as a pastor, mentor and cultural ambassador. One of the highlights of this book is an insightful interview with Bishop Henry, where he reflects on his incredible journey, the challenges he faced and the grace that guided him. Adding a deeply personal dimension to this book are the memoirs shared by friends, colleagues and collaborators—individuals who walked beside him, learned from him and were inspired by his humility and leadership.

Adding a musical touch to the evening, a song dedicated to Bishop Henry titled “ಕುರ್ಪೆ ಜಿಣೆಂ: ಭಾವಾರ್ಥ್ ಆನಿ ಮೊಗಾಚೊ ಪಾವುಣ್ಶ್ಯಾಂವೊ ಸುವಾಳೊ” (Kurpe Jinem: Bhavarth Ani Mogacho Pavunshyavo Suwalo) was released. The lyrics, penned by Kishoo Barkur and music composed by Cajetan Dias, beautifully encapsulated the essence of Bishop Henry’s impactful journey and his contributions to the community.

Dignitaries, religious leaders, and well-wishers from across the region gathered to honor Bishop Henry and celebrate his extraordinary achievements. The event’s live stream enabled an even wider audience to partake in this momentous occasion. The recording is available for viewing at the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/live/u6jjtmClrXU?si=jX0pvGN5z4VuxFFJ