Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala (JD)

Karkala, Jan 29: Lacs of devotees, including social and political leaders, participated in the fourth day of the annual feast of St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur, Karkala. Former Lokayukta and retired Supreme Court chief justice Santhosh Hegde, along with former Karnataka minister Abhaychandra Jain, visited the shrine and conveyed their wishes to the pastors and faithful on the occasion. The duo was honored by the rector and parishioners.

The fourth day of the annual feast witnessed a massive gathering of devotees from near and far.

The festival Eucharistic celebration was led by Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, bishop emeritus of the diocese of Mangaluru, at 10 am. A total of ten Eucharistic celebrations were held throughout the day, officiated by Fr Dr Jencil Alva of Milagres Cathedral, Fr Stany D'Souza of Shimoga diocese, Fr Ronald Miranda, parish priest of Barkur, Fr Francis Rodrigues, parish priest of Adyapady, Fr Paul D'Souza of Chikmagalur diocese, Fr Sunil D'Silva, parish priest of Sastan parish, Fr Joseph Cyril D'Souza, OCD of Katkere, Kundapur, and Fr Canute Barboza, parish priest of Miyar.

Special prayers were offered for the sick and suffering. The atmosphere at the shrine was filled with a sense of unity, as the faithful gathered to honor the martyrdom of St Lawrence, the patron saint of the poor and the oppressed. The rich traditions, prayers, and hymns created an environment of charity, love, and solidarity.

Devotees left the shrine with renewed hope and gratitude, carrying with them the blessings and peace of the celebration. The Feast of St Lawrence at the Attur shrine remains a significant event in the region’s religious calendar, symbolizing the enduring power of faith, hope, compassion, and community spirit.

The Thursday of January 30, being the last day of the annual feast, will be celebrated as Thanksgiving Day, dedicated to Our Lady of Guide, during which parishioners will express gratitude to God and Mother Mary for the blessings received during the feast. The last Mass is scheduled for 8.30 pm, after which the festival flag will be lowered, marking the conclusion of the five-day celebrations.