Report: Fr Jawahar Jerry Cutinho

Photos: Studio Aurora, Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Sep 18: Nine days novena in preparation for the annual feast of St Padre Pio was inaugurated by hoisting the flag here at the church premises of St Anne's Frairy, Bejai on September 15.

Kavitha Sanil, Mayor of Mangaluru, hoisted the flag and conveyed the good wishes for the upcoming celebration. She also assured her kindhearted support to the social activities done by the Capuchin Friars.

Fr Melwyn, the guardian of St Anne's Friary presented her a welcome bouquet and Bro Victor Crasta, capuchin, assistant director of Sandesha presented her with a memento. Fr Maxim Disilva conducted the prayer service in Kannada and Fr Derick Dsouza compered the inaugural programme.

After the inauguration, holy mass was celebrated with devotion. Fr Gerald Lobo, the guardian of St Fidelis Friary, Farangipate celebrated the mass. During the novena, special prayers were held for all the married couples.