Photography: Stany Bantwal

Report: Meena Barboza

Mangaluru, Aug 11: At the annual feast of Bondel St Lawrence church & shrine, the celebration was led by Dr Wilfred Gregory Moras, coadjutor bishop of Jhansi. Dr Wilfred Gregory Moras celebrated the Holy Eucharist on the eve of the annual feast of the shrine of St Lawrence in Bondel on Saturday, August 10 at 10.30 am. A significant number of pilgrims and devotees filled every available space in the shrine to partake in the grand celebration

Dr Wilfred Gregory Moras began the celebration saying "A Life of Prayer is a gift of God."

The solemnity of the Holy Mass was profoundly enhanced by the inspiring homily delivered by Coadjutor Bishop Moras who emphasized the profound message of St Teresa of Avila described prayer as an intimate conversation with God, emphasizing that it is a way to deepen one's relationship with Him.

"She believed that three important virtues are essential for prayer: humility, detachment, and love for others,“ dying for others is real prayer" is vividly illustrated by the example of Abraham. Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac, as commanded by God. Similarly, Abraham’s intercession for the people of Sodom highlights his deep compassion and commitment to others," he said.

Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest, Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal, St Lawrence English Medium School, Fr William D'Souza, assistant priest, Fr Andrew D'Souza and other various priests from city Deanery celebrated the mass.

The melodious choir was from Bondel under the leadership of Dr Suraj.

Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza, parish priest of St Lawrence shrine felicitated the newly Coadjutor Bishop with a beautiful shawl, flower bouquet and a memento. He extended his heartfelt thanks to the Bishop, the priests who celebrated, and all who participated in the Mass.

Later in the noon, distinguished group visited the shrine among them were newly-elected MLC Ivan D'Souza, Joachim Stany Alvares, president of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy

During their visit, they had the opportunity to meet with the Coadjutor Bishop of Jhansi, Dr Wilfred Gregory Moras who was present at the shrine, along with the parish priest, Fr Andrew. The convener of the shrine, Prakash Pinto, and members of the shrine committee were also in attendance, welcoming the guests with warmth and hospitality.

The closing ceremony of the feast of St Lawrence's Church, Bondel was celebrated with grandeur and devotion on Saturday, August 10 at 6 pm.  Msgr Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar Diocese, was the main celebrant. In his homily, Bishop Duming Dias delivered a profound message on the essence of prayer, He outlined three simple yet powerful steps: first, cultivating a deep desire for God's presence in lives; second, inviting Christ into hearts and daily routines; and third, placing the hope firmly in Christ.

Bishop Dias also emphasized the significance of family prayer, pointing out two essential elements: prayer brings God closer, and prayer fosters a bond with fellow beings—the neighbors and loved ones whom God places in lives.

Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest, Fr James D'Souza, vicar forane, City Varado, Fr Peter Gonsalves, Fr William D'Souza, Fr J B Saldanha, Fr J B Crasta, Fr Santhosh Rodrigues and various priests from the city, other parishes & Other congregation concelebrated the mass. .

Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza, parish priest of St Lawrence shrine, felicitated the Bishop with a beautiful shawl, flower bouquet and a memento, extended his heartfelt thanks to rev Msgr Duming Dias Bishop of Karwar & all the priests for celebrating and participating in the mass.

The choir group of children from Bondel parish captured the minds and hearts of the parishioners.

Fr Andrew thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the nine novena and the feast. Special thanks was offered to the liturgy committee, shrine committee, parish council members, Divine Word TV and team, media committee, vehicle parking team, volunteers, the ladies association as well as those in charge of lights, band sponsors, sound, and decorations. Fr Andrew wish everyone who gathered a joyful and blessed feast. It was inspiring to see people of all religions visiting the shrine and expressing religious unity during the feast.

Fr James D'Souza, the vicar forane took a moment to speak and extend his heartfelt gratitude to Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza, the parish priest for his unwavering dedication and service to the parish. He acknowledged Fr Andrew's tireless efforts and commitment to his ministry, at the Bondel Church & Shrine, praising the impactful way he has been leading his Parish.

Msgr Duming Dias, bishop of Karwar diocese, Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest, Fr Peter Gonsalves, Fr William D'Souza, Fr J B Saldanha, PRO of Mangalore diocese, Fr J B Crasta, various priests from the city & other parishes, John D'Silva, vice president, Santhosh Misquith, secretary, PPC, Prakash Pinto, convener, shrine committee, Meena Barboza, convener, media committee along with guest priest were present during the closing ceremony.