Pics: Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JD)

Mangaluru, Jan 4: Ahead of the feast of Infant Jesus shrine scheduled to be held on January 14, a grand Horekanike (offertory procession) was flagged off by the parish priest of Kulshekar Fr Victor Machado along with MLC Ganesh Karnik here on Monday January 4. 

The colourful offertory procession, organized for the first time, witnessed participation of many faithful. Comprising of offertory items donated by various donors of city, the procession culminated in front of the shrine at the statue of Infant Jesus.

MLA, Mangaluru south constituency, JR Lobo along with other dignitaries, hoisted the flag of the shrine on the occasion.

Speaking to reporters, MLA J R Lobo who was also present on the occasion said, "This is a shrine of miracles. People of all religions come to the shrine and seek the blessings of Infant Jesus. I wish happy feast of Infant Jesus and pray that He blesses us all.”

Well-wishers and organizing team of the procession were honoured on the occasion. 

Director of 'Rishivana' Fr Pius D'Souza blessed the flag of the shrine. President of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy Roy Castelino, corporators Sabitha Misquith, Bhaskar Moily, president of city unit of BJP Ravishankar Mijar, builder Abdul Rauf Putthige, president of Dakshina Kannada amateur Kabaddi association Rathan Shetty Baradi, superior of the shrine Fr Joe Tauro, director of the shrine Fr Elias D'Souza, BJP leader Franklin Monteiro and others were present. 

The novena will commence from January 5 and will conclude with the celebration of feast of Infant Jesus on January 14.