Richard D'Souza
Udupi, Jul 10: The titular feast of Our Lady of Miracles was celebrated with devotion and gaiety at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, on Tuesday, July 9.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi diocese, concelebrated the holy mass along with Fr Valerian Mendonca, dean of Udupi, Fr Denis D’Sa, dean of Udupi, Dr Lawrence C D’Souza, rector of the Cathedral and dean of Kallianpur and 26 other priests.
In his homily, Fr Anil D’Souza, parish priest of Our Lady of Fathima Church, Parempalli, said, “since 341 years, the parishioners of Milagres have received plenty of favours by praying to Our Lady of Miracles. Our parishioners over the years have kept their faith in Mother Mary and continued their devotion towards her. Today, the church has become a Cathedral of the diocese and this is indeed a blessing from our Mother.”
“The Catholic Church has given special honour to Mother Mary. We should keep faith in Mother Mary, as she guides us to lead a better life. Mother Mary is a role model, who teaches us to keep our faith in the almighty. From her obedience at the annunciation to the events of Christ’s passion, she illustrates a model of Christian virtue, faith and obedience. She has remained true to Christ and his word. Her fidelity shows us that true faith can be preserved,” he said.
The feast saw participation of large number of devotees, who also made offerings to the church. Under the leadership of Fr Lancy Fernandes SJ, the beautiful choir accelerated the celebrations with devotion.
Fr Lawrence C D’Souza, rector of the Cathedral, expressed gratitude to bishop, priests, pastoral council officials and others for their participation and contribution to the feast.
The bishop honoured Gilbert D’Silva, the main sponsor of the titular feast. He was gifted a decorated candle. The bishop also honoured other sponsors with decorated candles.
The bishop expressed concern over the lack of rains this season. A special prayer was offered to Mother Mary for rain. A few minutes after the prayer, the parishioners witnessed heavy rain and winds, which lasted for over half an hour. Many called the rain a miracle and termed it as a blessing from the Mother.