Inception and History:
Catholic Sabha took its birth on 29th April 1979 during a Laity meet at Udupi. Catholic Sabha was first started at Udupi Parish (then under the Mangalore diocese). The Committee was formed with Sri Oscar Fernandes being the President and Sri Alban Rodrigues being the Secretary, with the first office of Catholic Sabha established at Don Bosco Club, Udupi under the Guidance and Support of Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Basil S. D’Souza and Leadership of Rev. Fr. Stanley R. Pereira. On April 1st, 2013, Catholic Sabha - Udupi Pradesh came into existence after Udupi became a separate diocese in 2012
Objective and Motto:
The objective was to provide political awareness among Christian brothers and sisters, to educate on the facilities and rights available for minorities in India, and to provide a support system to build a strong Christian community and be united to fight against any hardships faced by the Christian community. Our Motto – “Service, Sacrifice, and Unity” reflects its commitment to the welfare of both the local community and the Church.
Initiatives by Catholic Sabha:
The organization is determined to work towards the development and upliftment of the community through various programs that are undertaken every year. Programs like Free Health check camps, Felicitation programs for high-achieving students, Elocution competitions for children and youth in Konkani and Kannada to encourage them for public speaking, Awareness programs on politics, law, finance, etc., Making and renewal of Manipal Health Cards, Assembly Election campaigning and support from the organization during elections by working as Booth agents and representatives, Submission of application for inclusion of names of graduates in Constituency Elections, Assistance to the needy non-Catholic families by distributing Ration kits during Christmas, Distribution of plants during Vanamahotsava celebration in view of showing the need for making a better environment.
Currently, there are 620 life-members and 28 Committee members in Udupi Parish. The association publishes a monthly magazine, "Amcho Sandesh," featuring insightful articles covering various aspects of life.
At present, Smt. Rita Lobo serves as the president, and Smt. Sheela Castelino serves as the secretary in the association at our parish." In celebration of its rich legacy, Catholic Sabha Udupi Unit continues to embody the values of service, sacrifice, and unity, making a positive impact on the lives of many.