Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 10: The new Bishop of Mangaluru, Dr Peter Paul Saldanha on Thursday November 9 for the first time conferred the sacrament of confirmation to 31 children here at Rosario Cathedral.

The bishop catechized the children for half an hour by explained the need of faith today among the youth. He instructed the children regarding the faith in Trinity in simple words. Citing the example of St Theresa of Kolkata bishop explaining the importance of the holy eucharist. He said, "Mother Theresa opened her houses only where priests were available to offer mass. This expressed her great desire and deep faith in the presence of the Lord in the eucharist.

The bishop presided over the holy eucharist. During the homily he said, “We need to be witnesses of Christ in the present world. The Holy Spirit is the one who empowers us to proclaim our faith boldly. After receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit, young people need to take up every opportunity to witness Jesus in their lives.

Fr J B Crasta, rector of the Cathedral, Fr Flavian Lobo, assistant parish priest, Fr Rocky Fernandes and Fr Victor D’Souza concelebrated the eucharist.

The rector thanked the bishop, Fr Flavian who prepared the children for the confirmation, parents and children. He also said that the celebration of the sacrament of confirmation was one among the 450 jubilee year spiritual activities.

The entire liturgy was conducted by the Children under the guidance of the assistant priest. The bishop thanked the parents and children and wished all of them well.
Prior to the sacrament of confirmation, Fr J B Crasta conducted the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The Cathedral choir sang traditional hymns during the eucharist under the leadership of Antony D’Silva the choirmaster.