Media Release

Mangaluru, Jan 4: The brethren of Neermarga Parish congregated around the Eucharistic Table in thanksgiving because Christ made Himself known to Humankind in person.

Fr Anil D'Mello, parish priest presided over the Mass for the Feast of the Epiphany on January 3 and concelebrated by Fr Timothy Saldanha. In his homily, Fr Anil D'Mello excellently elucidated the history and the significance of the three distinct gifts offered by the Magi. With the aid of a narrative, he portrayed the fourth gift i.e. The three wise men came from the East bearing gifts and they found a welcome at Bethlehem in contrast to the turmoil and obstacles of their journey. They seemed to be searching for God and God Himself manifested to them on the face of a tiny Babe. God’s light reached, guided and led them to the saviour thereby Fr Anil assisted the faithful to derive life messages. The scripture readings were then paraphrased extremely well with anecdotes.

The Blessed Sacrament was exposed immediately after communion for adoration. The parishioners spent half an hour in prayer led by the pastor that was indeed soothing and introspective after which Benediction was imparted.

After the Benediction five winners of the gram panchayat election-- Flavia D'Souza, Anita D'Souza, Ronald Pascal Saldanha, Molly Shanthi Saldanha and Laveena D'Souza were felicitated by Fr Anil D'Mello, parish priest, Ravi Saldanha, vice president Parish Pastoral Council, Prakash Pereira, secretary Parish Pastoral Council, Sr Rufina, superior of Holy Cross Convent with a shawl, garland and mementoes. The parish priest congratulated the victors and requested them to discharge their duties to the best of their ability with diligence and dedication and also to keep hope alive in the people in difficult times. It was indeed a moment of elation, exhilaration and conviviality to the entire Neermarga community.