Mangaluru: Feast of St Gerald Majella the Patron Saint of pregnant mothers and post-natal mothers was celebrated On October 17 by the department of obstetrics and gynecology (OBGy) at the hospital conference hall.

A short prayer service was conducted by the nursing staff of the department. The formal inauguration of the feast took place by lighting of the lamp by the chief guest of the programme, Dr Gayatri Ramani, famous obstetrics and gynecologist of the city who is also a former staff of Father Muller Hospital.

The administrator Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho garlanded the statue of St Gerald Majella. The chief guest in her speech mentioned that she was truly inspired by this saint some 40 years ago while she was working all alone in the department. To conduct safe delivery, one’s effort is not sufficient but also God’s helping hand and Saint Gerald’s intercession is required. She also mentioned that for the past 40 years she has been seeking the intercession of St Gerald Majella to conduct safe deliveries. She said that she is convinced of the help that she has received from this saint.

The administrator, Fr Richard Coelho in his presidential address mentioned that all pregnant mothers should pray to this saint and seek God’s help for safe deliveries. Expectant mothers undergo stress and anxiety regarding labour and childbirth. Trusting God and His providence will bring relief and peace to them. He congratulated the departmental staff for their keenness on celebrating the feast every year by conducting various entertaining competitions for expectant mothers.

The department organized a short role play on St Gerald Majella’s help for an expectant mother in distress of labour.

Fr Rudoplh Ravi D’Sa, administrator of FMMC, Fr Felix Monteiro, counsellor and chaplain, Dr Udyakumar, medical superintendent, Dr Prema, HOD OBGy department, Dr Sujaya Rao, Dr Nagarathna G and postgraduates of OBGy department and nursing staff were present on the occasion.

Sr Janet D’Souza, chief nursing officer proposed the vote of thanks.