Pics: Jeevan D’Costa
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Sep 24: The St Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Cathedral in Brahmavar celebrated the centenary year of remembrance of “Bishop Alvares” with profound reverence and grandeur on Sunday, September 24.
Every year, the Brahmavar Orthodox Syrian Cathedral commemorates Bishop Alvares Mar Julius, the former Archbishop of Goa, Ceylon, and India, by celebrating the “Bishop Alvares” feast. He passed away on September 23, 1923. This year marks the 100th year of remembrance, and special prayers were offered during the holy Eucharistic celebrations to honor his legacy.
The Holy Eucharistic celebration of the feast was presided over by Fr M C Matai, the vicar general of St Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Cathedral in Brahmavar. Fr Joseph Chaco and Fr Anthony Merwin D'Silva co-celebrated the event. Other distinguished guests included Fr Ashwin Fernandes, secretary of the Inter-Religious Ecumenical Commission, Fr David Crasta, Fr Abraham Kuriakose, and Fr Noel Lewis.
During the Vesper prayers held on Saturday, September 23, Fr Lawrence D'Souza delivered a sermon highlighting the life of Bishop Alvares.
In his homily, Fr M C Mathai, the vicar general, emphasized, "Today, we are celebrating the 100th year of remembrance. Bishop Alvares founded this church and played a pivotal role in spreading the Orthodox Syrian faith in the locality. Today, we must delve into the life of Bishop Alvares, strive to emulate his faith, and seek his intervention in our prayers. He endured tremendous toil and suffering, remaining steadfast in his Orthodox belief. Presently, thousands of devotees from across the world visit Bishop Alvares' tomb in Goa."
As part of the celebrations, a procession of the Holy relic of Bishop Alvares took place.
The festal celebrations were sponsored by Rockey Lewis and family, while Milton D'Souza and family sponsored the fellowship meal during the vesper day.
The sponsors were honored with blessed candles on this auspicious occasion.
A large congregation of devotees actively participated in the festal mass and procession.
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