Report & Photos: Canara Communication Centre

Mangaluru, Feb 6: The St Anthony Shrine at Milagres Church in Mangaluru maked the eighth day of the novena leading up to the annual relic feast of St Anthony of Padua on TUesday, February 6.

The eucharistic mass was presided over by Fr Herry D'Souza, spiritual director of Gladsom Home Minor Seminary along with Fr J B Crasta, the director and Fr Gilbert D'Souza, chaplain of St Anthony Charitable Institutions in Jeppu.

Fr Harry’s sermon focused on "Embracing the Humble of Heart of St Antony." He said, "Drawing inspiration from St Anthony of Padua's profound humility, reflected in his devotion to serving the poor and his simplicity of heart, we are reminded of the essence of humility as exemplified by Jesus in Matthew 11:25. Just as St Anthony humbly surrendered to God's will and found rest in serving others, we too are called to embrace humility by approaching God with childlike openness, surrendering to His wisdom and will, and finding peace and rest for our souls in acts of humble service and prayer."

Following the mass, Fr Gilbert D'Souza led the novena, with special prayers for the addicted, hopeless and helpless people. The choir members of Urwa Church added a melodious dimension to the expressions of gratitude.