Media Release

Davanagere, Sep 8: The ninth day of the Novena at Our Lady of Health, Minor Basilica, Harihara, Davanagere district, diocese of Shimoga, was marked with great fervor. The evening began with the Rosary, Procession, and floral homages to Harihara Matha. Fr George K A, basilica rector and parish priest, led the Novena.

Dr. Bernard Moras, archbishop emeritus of the archdiocese of Bangalore and apostolic administrator of the diocese of Mysore, celebrated the Holy Eucharist. In his homily, he emphasized, "Mother Mary is a beacon of hope’ and that ‘hope is a ray of inspiration for evangelizers’." He highlighted the significance of hope, citing Romans 5:5, ‘Hope never disappoints us.’

Archbishop Moras stressed that hope is essential for evangelizers and that Mother Mary is a shining example of hope. He reflected on Mother Mary's role in uniting us in the Lord Jesus and how she expects us to follow Jesus' teachings, saying "Do whatever my son tells you." The archbishop encouraged the faithful to examine their conscience, prioritize their spiritual lives, and cultivate a deeper relationship with God. He noted that Mother Mary's love is experienced through her intercession and that shrines and basilicas are places where we can experience her love.

Dr Francis Serrao SJ, bishop of the diocese of Shimoga, and a large number of clergies concelebrated the Holy Eucharist. Archbishop emeritus Bernard Moras was honored by bishop Francis Serrao SJ on behalf of the diocese of Shimoga. Fr George K A, rector of the Minor Basilica, thanked archbishop emeritus Bernard Moras.

After the Mass, Fr Franklin D'Souza and Fr Roman Pinto led the healing prayers and benediction, with priests praying over the pilgrims. The ninth day of the Novena concluded with a sense of hope and renewal, inspired by Mother Mary's example.

Mass link