Pics: Stanly Bantwal

Mangalore, Sep 14: A new cross was blessed Fr Peter Noronha, the parish priest of Bendur at the Bridgitte’s Convent, Nantoor here marking the occasion of the feast of the exaltation of the cross on Tuesday September 14. The day also coincides with the second anniversary of attacks on churches under the diocese. 

Historically, the calvary hill on which the convent is situated is known for the cross erected in the memory of the faithful who suffered the persecution under Tipu Sultan back in 1784. Unlike the memorial cross which is placed above the convent chapel, the newly blessed cross will be easily accessible for the faithful for the adoration as it is at the entrance of the convent.

Prior to the blessing of the cross, a concelebrated festal mass was held. The main celebrant Fr Peter Noronha was assisted by Fr William Barochus and Fr Nelson pinto. Local faithful and the inmates of the convent were also present. Walter Pinto of vamanjoor furnished the cross with his artistic and creative masonary skills while Lancy Saldanha of Jugul Constructions has sponsored the entire expenses for the monument.