News and pics: Wilson D'Souza Shirva
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Feb 12: The feast of Our Lady of Lourdes was celebrated at Shirva Church on Wednesday February 11.

The festive mass in honour of Our Lady of Lourdes was celebrated at 6 pm on Wednesday at Irmiz church by Fr Baptist Menezes, episcopal vicar of Udupi and concelebrated by Fr James D'Souza, dean of Beltangady deanery, Fr Mathew Vas, dean of Udupi deanery, Fr Richard Saldanha, parish priest of Belvai, Fr Maxim, Don Bosco house, Shirva, Fr Richard Coelho, parish priest of Shirva and Fr Fredrick Monteiro, assistant priest, Shirva.

After the mass, the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes was taken in a car (candle) procession through the streets of the church’s vicinity. Lighted candles that were lit in front of the houses and shops as a mark of respect to Our Lady of Lourdes illuminated the route of the procession.

After the procession reached the grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes at the church ground, Fr Mathew Vas delivered a sermon, which was concluded with exposition of the sacrament and blessings.

Shirva parish priest Fr Richard Coelho honoured the donors (Mud-dhom). Around 3,000 people congregated for the grand feast and procession.