Pics: Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JS)
Mangaluru, Jan 3: Thousands of faithful took part in the annual Eucharistic procession of Mangaluru diocese held on Sunday January 3 from Milagres Church to Rosario Cathedral.
The celebratons began with a Mass at Milagres Cathedral led by bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza. The procession led by the bishop culminated at Rosario Cathedral where adoration of the Holy Sacrament was held. Thousands of people including priests, nuns and the laity took part in the procession.
In his homily, former director of Mangala Jyothi Fr Boniface Pinto said, "Christian life is nothing but living a Eucharistic life. Holy Eucharist is important for us because our Lord looks after us by giving all that is necessary for living. Eucharist is a gift - a great gift to thank God. Eucharist becomes fruitful by going to holy Mass, taking part in Eucharistic mass and having holy communion with faith. If the Eucharist does not unite, then there is no meaning to our celebrations."
Giving examples of how to lead one's life in the best way, he said, "A parent who stays up all night with the child and goes to work next morning is the real hero."
A book on the history of Mangaluru diocese, authored by Fr Devadutt Kamath S J and Fr Pius Fidelis Pinto was released by bishop Dr Aloysius on the occasion.
In his address, the bishop said, "I congraltulate Fr Devdutt Kamath and Fr Fidelis Pinto on writing a book on history of Mangaluru diocese. I thank both the priests for writing this book and for the efforts they have put into it. God has given us this new year 2016 and I wish peaceful, happy and blessed year ahead to all of you. Let us keep our trust in Lord and go forward in life. We should live our faith and thereby be example to others. I thank all for being part of this holy Eucharist procession."
The bishop also blessed the statues of St Joseph Vaz and St Mariam Baouardy. Fr Devadutt Kamath S J and Fr Pius Fidelis Pinto were felicitated by Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza on the occasion.
Parishes of Cordel, Milagres and Bejai were given mementoes for making the highest collections for Mangaluru diocese during Mission Sunday. The names of the parishes were announced by Fr Sunil George D'Souza.
Msgr Denis Moras Prabhu, vicar general, Fr Valerian D'Souza, Milagres parish priest, Fr J B Crasta, parish priest of Rosario Cathedral, MLA J R Lobo, MLC Ivan D'souza, Dolphy D'Souza, John D'Silva and others were present.