Media Release

Udupi, Jun 9: Those missing the feast since the last couple of years due to the imposition of Covid restrictions, can partake in the celebrations of St Antony Shrine, Kerekatte with devotion and festivities on June 13 this year.

The history behind the shrine is fascinating. According to tradition, around 350 years ago, when there was no Christian presence in this region of Kerekatte which is located near Baalebare Ghat section on Siddapur-Hosangady Highway, a farmer while tilling his field, unearthed a 10-inch wooden statue which was found to have miraculous powers. St Juze Vaz who visited this place in 1682 identified the statue as that of St Anthony of Padua and provided a thatched roof for its veneration and devotion. Devotees started visiting this place in large numbers thereafter and obtained innumerable favours. Today this unknown place has become a pilgrim center and is recognized as a Diocesan Shrine.

The celebrations attract nearly a crowd of five thousand from far and near. People flock to the place irrespective of caste and creed to thank the Almighty for the favours received through the intercession of St Antony.

Three Masses will be held on the feast day to make it convenient for everyone to come and to be a part of the celebrations.

The first Mass will be held at 8.30 am in Kannada. The festive Mass with the bishop of Udupi, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo as main celebrant, will be held at 10.30 am. The special Mass to pray for the sick and needy will be held at 4.00 pm and will be presided by Fr Alban D'Souza, the rector of St Lawrence Basilica, Attur.

In preparation for the feast, a three-day prayer and Novena will be held from 10th June to 12 th June. ‘The Triduum’ begins at 10 in the morning with the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

Meals will be served to nearly 5,000 people who are expected to join the celebrations.

Fr Sunil Veigas, the rector of the shrine, has extended a cordial welcome to the devotees of St Antony to partake in the celebrations.