Fr Adolf Washington

Bengaluru, Aug 11: Archbishop Dr Bernard Moras commenced his 76th birthday on August 10 with a Mass at the Clergy Home Chapel of the Archbishops House on a spiritual note. Over 40 priestly delegates were present, including the vicars general, Msgr C Francis and Msgr S Jayanathan and Chancellor Fr A S Anthonyswamy.

A plethora of guests greeted the vibrant and energetic Dr Bernard Moras. The archbishop prayed for all the people of Karnataka.

The archbishop appointed by Pope St John Paul II the head of the Catholic Church in the world, first assumed office as Bishop of Belgaum (Belagavi). The archbishop earns the credit of being the first bishop to erect a church in honour of Pope St John Paul II in India.

Superior of the Jesuits, Fr Antony Joseph in his homily commented on the importance of religious leaders going in search of the lost and lonely and drew reference to the efforts of the archbishop who has spent much of his time and efforts over the many years in reaching out to those in need of succour and strength from the Lord.

In the later part of the day, state home minister G Parmeshwar, urban development minister K J George and several other statesmen, police officers and members of various organizations including nuns and members from various parishes called upon the archbishop. The archbishop's secretary Fr Paneer Selva Kumar was also present to receive the archbishop’s guests.