Media Release

Mangaluru, Dec 21: A day of supplication was scrupulously systematized by Fr Anil D Mello, parish priest on December 17, 2021, that indeed relighted and magnified the relationship of the parishioners with God. Fr Anil D Mello set the tone for a refreshing morning by according a warm and hospitable welcome to the retreat preacher, Dr Vincent Sequeira, In charge for Biblical Ministry and asst director, Mangala Jyothi, a multi-faceted and dynamic personality.

The retreat began at 9 am and concluded at 4 pm. In the morning session the cogitation was centered around Bartimaeus and Zacchaeus--The one who could not see Jesus and another who wanted to see Jesus. Bartimaeus who could not see Jesus called out His name despite the crowd scolding him not to and Zacchaeus-who wanted to see Jesus climbed the tree braving the ridicule of the people. To both Jesus responded in a way to change their hearts. Bartimaeus who got his sight, followed Jesus on the way to Jerusalem and Zacchaeus welcomed Jesus to his home let go of his wealth to help the poor.

The Preacher after explaining the passages and the criteria for responding to God’s call gave factual instances, anecdotes and vignettes to lead a meaningful life as a result the retreatants went into confessions to the awaiting priests. At the lunch break, all dined with congee, chutney and fried mackerel.

In the afternoon with the parable of The Good Samaritan and Jesus visit to Martha and Mary, the Preacher prodded the congregation to action to live their faith.

The retreat was crowned with Eucharistic Adoration and a Thanksgiving Eucharist.

On the whole it was precious time for the parishioners to withdraw a couple of hours from the noise and cares of earthly life in order to spend some quality time in communion with the omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent God.