Pics: Kevin Rodrigues

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (WD/KR)

Karkala, Jan 28: On the second day of the annual feast of St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur, devotees gather in huge numbers to seek God’s grace. Special prayers were offered for the sick and elderly.

Dr Antonyswamy, bishop, Chikkamagaluru diocese offered the holy Eucharistic Mass in Kannada.

In his homily, Bishop Dr Antonyswamy said, “Our life is meaningless without good deeds. St Lawrence was trusted for his deeds. He gave the wealth of the church to poor and needy and presented them in front of the emperor who asked him to surrender the wealth of the church to him. The emperor punished St Lawrence but he accepted it and became a true witness of Christ.”

Prior to this, Mass was offered by Fr Reginald Pinto, director, Sampada, diocese of Udupi. He offered special prayers for the sick and elderly. In his message he said, “Many elderly and sick have been bought here to this holy place by their family members. I am delighted and appreciate the efforts of the family members who have brought their elderly and sick parents to this place. May God heal all of you and bless us.”

Devotees in large numbers took part in the Sacrament of Confession. Special arrangements were made for the sick and elderly for confession. Many priests from various dioceses can be seen rendering their service in the holy place.

Former union minister Virappa Moily, Muniyal Uday Kumar Shetty and other dignitaries visited the miracle place and sought the blessings from St Lawrence.

On third day of the feast there will 11 masses. Two festive Mass will be offered by bishops of Shivamogga and Puttur. None Konkani Masses and two Kannada Masses will be offered.

Geevarghese Makarios Kalayil, bishop, diocese of Puttur (Syro-Malankara), will preside over Holy Eucharistic celebration on Tuesday, January 28 at 10.30 am. Mass will be celebrated in Kannada.

Dr Francis Serrao, bishop, diocese of Shivamogga, will preside over Holy Eucharistic celebration on Tuesday, January 28 at 6.00 pm. Mass will be celebrated in Kannada.

Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop, diocese of Udupi, will preside over Holy Eucharistic celebration on Wednesday, January 29 at 10.30 am. Mass will be celebrated in Konkani.

Dr Lawrence Mukkuzhy, diocese of Beltangady (Syro-Malabar) will preside over Holy Eucharistic celebration on Wednesday, January 29 at 6.00 pm. Mass will be celebrated in Kannada.

Dr Peter Paul Saldhana, bishop, diocese of Mangaluru, will preside over Holy Eucharistic celebration on Thursday, January 30 at 10.30 pm. Mass will be celebrated in Konkani.

For the safety of the devotees, ample arrangements have been made. Rounded the clock police security, home guards, fire tenders, emergency services like medical, Mescom and other local authorities have taken the responsibility for the smooth flow of the annual feast.