Divine Call Centre, Mulki, has come out with a New Konkani “Christmas Special” CD: “BALOK EK ZALMALA” with Carols composed especially for Church programmes during Christmas season & school performances on Christmas themes.

This CD was released by Rev Fr. Norbert Lobo, the Parish Priest of Immaculate Conception Church, Mulki, after the Solemn Mass on the eve of Advent on 28^th November, 2009 at Divine Call Centre, Mulki in the presence of Rev Fr. Cyprian Lewis SVD -the Director of Divine Call Centre and Rev.Fr. Melwin of Kinnigoli Parish.

Speaking on the occasion Rev Fr. Norbert Lobo lauded the Centre in its efforts to give ‘Glory to God’ and in bringing the faithful closer to God in various ways. He appreciated the Divine team, especially Mr. Richard Machado, for bringing out this Special Christmas CD – with its unique theme and concept.  He also appealed the Catholic community to come forward and use the God-given talents like Mr. Richard to enhance the devotion of the people.

Expressing his gratitude to the Almighty God and to Divine Call Centre, Mr. Richard thanked all those people who were instrumental in bringing out this CD.  He said that this special CD is prepared with the intention to come handy for various groups for any type of programme related to Christmas. He also said that the lyrics are composed in such a way that they will be very much useful to organise a “LIVE CRIB” programme.

The lyrics and tunes are composed by Richard Machado of Derebail Parish. Mr. Gladson Ravindra is the music director for this CD. The harmonisation has been done by Rev. Fr. Walter Albuquerque S.J. This CD has been recorded at Kalasangama, Mangalore by Nanson and the carols are sung by Rev. Fr. Anil Kiran Fernandes SVD, Rev. Fr. Sunil Menezes SVD, Mr. Ronald, Mr. Oswald, Mrs. Maria Pereira, Mrs. Mariya, Baby Lisha, Smenita, Joylin, Mr. Richard Machado and Chorus.

Mr. Richard Machado has composed lyrics and melodies for his earlier popular volumes, “Agape,” “Khursar Thavn,” “Apad Jezu Maka” and “Tuji Kurpa” in Konkani. “Strengthen Us Your Servants,” is his first ever English Composition.

Balok Ek Zalmala Audio CD is produced by Divine Call Centre, Mulki and the copies are available at the Retreat Centre and in the leading religious shops in Mangalore. Shortly the copies of this CD will be made available in some places in Mumbai also.