Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)
Udupi, Dec 24: Fr Alfred Roche, who was a native of Brahmavar Barkur, led a saintly life. Considering his divinity and demand of the people, the Congregation for the cause of Saints of the Vatican has given permission to begin the complex process of his canonization through the process of declaration of heroic virtues and beatification. The process will get going on December 27.
As the revered priest was from Udupi area, the Udupi diocese level process will begin at 10 am on December at the Holy Family Church Brahmavar. Bishop of Udupi diocese, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, will initiate the Holy Eucharist being celebrated that day.
People from all walks and classes of life respect Fr Alfred Roche taking into consideration his pious life, selfless service rendered to the people, and the effort he put to help the poor people. His spirituality and service to the people are considered as exalted models. Even though it has been more than 25years since he passed away, the demand for his elevation to sainthood has remained strong. Considering all these aspects, the process of canonizing him has been set into motion.
Fr Alfred Roche was born at Moodahadu, Barkur on April 23, 1924. His childhood name was Peter John Roche. He completed his primary and secondary education in Sastan and Milagres, Kallianpur. He joined the Capuchins order. He changed his name as Alfred. He was ordained into religious service on April 11, 1951.
He spent his early days in the religious service as the junior priest at Monti Mariano Farangipet and became the first Capuchin priest of Holy Family Church Brahmavar. After his retirement, in the middle of the 90s he returned to Brahmavar. After his demise on December 31, 1996, his mortal remains were buried there.
Fr Alfred Roche happens to be the second person to have been chosen for this rare honour after Msgr Raymond Francis Camilson Mascarenhas, former vicar general of Mangalore diocese and founder of Bethany Little Flower Sisters. The Udupi diocese takes pride at being chosen for such an honour within a short span of time since Udupi diocese was created.
Daijiworld.com will live stream the ceremony on Monday December 27, 10 am onwards.