Pics: Sany Digital Studio, Kalmady

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD/KR)

Udupi, Jul 6: Fr Baptist Menezes (Jr) on July 5 took over as new director of Our Lady of Velanakanni Shrine and parish priest of Stella Maris Church, Kalmady.

Former parish priest of Stella Maris Church, Kalmady, Fr Alban D'Souza was transferred to his new responsibilities as rector in St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur.

Fr Baptist Menezes (Jr) worked as mission director for Bidar mission of Mangaluru diocese for two terms during 1987-95 and 1996-2000. He also served as a professor at St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu. He served as rector of the minor seminary in Moodubelle before being appointed as parish priest of Kalmady.

Prior to the ritual ceremony, Fr Baptist Menezes (Jr) was given a warm welcome by the parishioners.

While Fr Charles Menezes conducted the handing over ceremony, Fr Roy Lobo, assistant parish priest of Stella Maris Church, Kalmady, Fr William Martis, resident priest, Sanjay Andrade, vice-president of the parish pastoral council, Shobha Mendonca, secretary of the parish council, Ida D'Souza, convener of 18 commission and parishioners were present during the occasion.

Fr Alban had served in Kalmady Stella Maris Church for nine years. The new boat-shaped church was built during his tenure. Which is known worldwide. During this tenure, continuous prayers and worship were conducted and given utmost importance and a holistic approach. He was known for his divine prayer and healing.

The parish pastoral committee felicitated Fr Alban for his relentless service in the parish.

Fr Alban D'Souza handed over the documents of the church to the new parish priest Fr Baptist Menezes (Jr) in a formal welcome ceremony on July 5 held in the church.

A formal felicitation programme was held for Fr Alban D'Souza for recognising his service in the parish.