Media Release

Kundapur, Jan 17: The annual feast of St Joseph Vaz was celebrated with great devotion and grandeur on January 16 at the St Joseph Vaz Prayer Centre, located in Kannadakudru of Hemmadi village, Kundapur taluk. This is the only prayer centre in the Udupi diocese dedicated to St Joseph Vaz.

The celebration was held under the leadership of Fr Thomas Roshan D’Souza, parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Gangolli.

Fr Denis D’Sa, public relations officer of the Udupi diocese and parish priest of St Anne’s Church, Thottam, was the main celebrant of the solemn Eucharistic Mass.

In his homily, Fr Denis D’Sa reflected on the spiritual significance of Kannadakudru, calling it a “holy land at the confluence of the five rivers of Gangolli.” He reminded the faithful that St Joseph Vaz, who was canonised on January 14, 2015, by the late Pope Francis, had walked and served in this sacred place.

Quoting the theme "Let us become witnesses of Christ through our loving service to the poor," he urged the community to remember that ‘the road to heaven passes through the neighbour’s courtyard.’ He encouraged everyone to dedicate themselves to serving others with love, especially in light of the Udupi Diocese’s declaration of 2026 as the ‘Year of the Poor.’

Several priests from the Kundapur Deanery, including Fr Paul Rego, concelebrated the festive Mass. The choir of Gangolli Church, led by Lloyd Revero, along with the Carmel Convent Sisters, enriched the liturgy with melodious singing. The feast was sponsored by Joseph Premi D’Almeida and the family of Salikeri, Brahmavar.

After the Mass, Fr Paul Rego conveyed festive greetings to all, while Fr Thomas Roshan D’Souza thanked the parishioners, volunteers, and all who contributed to the success of the celebration. A festive meal was served to all attendees.