Kottayam: 1,001 balloons bearing the image of the Mother, a big screen to catch live the canonization in the Vatican, Holy Mass and a rosary procession will mark the big day at St Joseph's Church Pushpagiri, Thellakam, near here, on Sunday. Relics, including strands of her hair, dress and sponge used as face wipe during Teresa's final hours will be displayed at the church. An exhibition tracing the Mother from the birth to death is also scheduled.
Fr Antony Kattoopara, the parish priest, said the church had launched welfare programmes, including awards and mementos. On Monday, at least 10,000 pairs of dress will be distributed in the district. The church will donate Rs 50,000 to Abro Bhavan Athirampuzha on Tuesday for destitute services. Media person Sasi Kumar unveiled a documentary on the life of Teresa. Sr Lucy Kurien, who runs Mehar, a Pune-based organization, received Rs 1 lakh. The eight-day programme, ending next Friday, includes Rs 1 lakh award to Ms Uma Preman, who runs Thrissur-based 'Shanthi'.
