Daijiworld Media Network- Belgaum (VA)
Belgaum, Feb 22: Bishop Emeritus Ignatius Lobo of Belgaum who passed away in Dharwad on Wednesday February 17 was laid to rest in ‘Our Lady of Family Rosary of Fatima Cathedral’, here on Friday February 19.
On Friday morning, before the Eucharist the body of Bishop was taken in procession in a decorated van in the camp area of the city. The solemn funeral liturgy was presided by Dr Bernard Moras, Archbishop of Bangalore along with Dr Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Dr Gerald Lobo, Bishop of Shimoga, Dr Derek Fernandes, Bishop of Karwar and Dr Joseph Arumachadath, Bishop of Bhadravathi.
About 150 priests and the close relatives of Bishop Ignatius Lobo were present during the service. Around 2,000 people from all over the diocese participated in the liturgy. Bishop Derek Fernandes of Karwar diocese who was the priest of the diocese of Belgaum and had known Bishop Ignatius Lobo from close quarters delivered the sermon at the Eucharist. He highlighted the qualities of late Bishop as an eminent pastor and a zealous administrator, who worked tirelessly. He spoke especially of his adherence to principles, never brooking compromises and added that though Bishop Ignatius Lobo was strict, he was always forgiving. The “child” in Bishop Lobo was also beautifully brought out by Bishop Derek.
Bishop Peter Machado, Bishop of Belgaum delivering the funeral oration, said that Bishop Lobo brought with him national and international experience in administration. The messages of condolences from the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, Ivan Cardinal Dias and the Apostolic Nunciature were read out by Fr Freddy A Raj, chancellor of the diocese. The Bishop was laid to rest with due ecclesiastical and official honours in the side wing of the Cathedral.
Bishop Lobo shepherded the diocese for 26 long years (1968 – 1994) and retired thereafter. In Belgaum diocese the Bishop was well- known in the social, developmental and educational circles as a leader of stature and pioneer of many institutions.