Steevan Colaco, Udyavar
Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala
Pics: Francita Studio, Belman

Karkala, Jun 13: The feast of St Antony Shrine was celebrated with great devotion at Pakala, Manjarapalke, Belman here on Saturday June 13.

The celebration began with the Eucharistic Mass began at 10.30 am. Fr Michael Santhumayor, principal of Milagres College, Mangaluru celebrated the Mass along with other priests.

Fr Santhumayor in his homily said, "St Antony lived a consecrated life and he is our role model. St Antony was born in a rich family, but he led a simple life by dedicating his soul to Jesus. St Antony is a strong pillar of Holy Mother Church. We find our growth in the consecrated life and mercy of God. St Antony was always loyal to God his entire life. In the name of St Antony sick people are healed, dacoits get a new life and many people are blessed. Let us try to lead a consecrated and exemplary life like St Antony."

Around 2,000 people were present for the Eucharistic celebration. Fr Lawrence D'Souza thanked all the devotees who were present for the Mass. Refreshments were given to the devotees thereafter.

St Antony Shrine, Manjarapalke is well-known in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. Many people visit this shrine with their families and seek blessings. People have witnessed many miracles in this place. It is located at a distance of about 37 km from Udupi, along the road from Padubidre to Karkala. Locally this place is known as Pakala or Kedinje or Manjarapalke.

Thousands of devotees witnessed the two-day feast on Friday June 12 and Saturday June 13.

During the year there is a novena followed by Mass at 4.15 pm on the first Tuesday of every month. People from all walks of life throng to Parkala shrine to offer prayer and candles from morning to evening on a daily basis.