Pics: Stanley Bantwal

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza

Mangaluru, Aug 6: The sixth day of the Novena in preparation for the annual feast of St Lawrence was observed with deep faith and devotion at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, centered on the theme, ‘The Lord is Trustworthy; He Gives Us Strength.’

The morning service commenced with Eucharistic adoration at 10:30 am, followed by the holy Mass at 11:30 am, celebrated by Fr Melwyn Noronha, parish priest of Alangar, Fr Basil Vas- rector & parish priest of St Lawrence Shrine concelebrated the holy Mass.

In his homily on the feast of the transfiguration, Fr Melwyn urged the faithful to allow Christ to transform their lives by looking to the Cross, drawing strength from the holy Eucharist, and being guided by the Word of God. Reflecting on the theme, ‘The Lord is Trustworthy; He Gives Us Strength,’ he reminded the faithful to place their complete trust in the Lord, who strengthens us in every trial and leads us towards a transformed life in Christ.

The morning liturgy was led by the parishioners of Alangar and Derebail, while the Derebail Parish Choir prayerfully animated the liturgical singing.

Each day, the shrine continues to welcome thousands of devotees from all walks of life, including people of different faiths, government officials, and public representatives, who come seeking the intercession of St Lawrence. Many also participate in the fellowship meal served at the shrine.

The evening service began with Eucharistic adoration at 5:30 pm, followed by the Holy Mass at 6:00 pm, celebrated by Fr Andrew D'Souza, parish priest of Bajpe. He was joined by Fr Basil Vas, Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, Fr Lawrence Cutinha, as concelebrants.

In his homily, Fr Andrew reflected on the day’s theme, ‘The Lord is Trustworthy; He Gives Us Strength.’ He reminded the faithful that the presence of Jesus in our lives gives us strength in every situation. Acknowledging that we are nothing without Him, he urged everyone to place their complete trust in the Lord and remain faithful to His Word.

The evening liturgy was conducted by the parishioners of Vamanjoor and Bondel, while the Bajpe Kids Choir beautifully enriched the Eucharistic celebration through their uplifting hymns.

Special prayers were offered for all brothers and sisters working abroad, asking God to protect them, bless their families, and grant them strength, good health, and success in their work.