Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje/Justin D'Silva
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi (JD)
Mangaluru/Udupi, Dec 31: With December 31, it was the end of yet another year. Faithful gathered in the churches to welcome the New Year in the twin districts for Holy Masses.
As a sign of gratitude to the Lord for showering His blessings upon everyone during the year, the parishioners gathered in large numbers for the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
The church choirs enriched the spiritual atmosphere by singing melodiously and meaningful hymns.
St Lawrence Church, Bondel
Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop diocese of Udupi, celebrated the New Year eve Holy Eucharistic celebration at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur.
Adoration of the Holy Eucharist was also held.
In his homily, Fr Valerian Mendonca, rector Milagres Cathedral said, "Mother Mary became the tabernacle of Jesus. As soon as she accepted the will of Lord Almighty, she went to her sister Elizabeth to help her in the days of her difficulties. Mother Mary is declared as Mother of God. We should be happy and proud about it. Mother Mary is referred in Quran as well. Today is the first day of rest of your life. God has given us a valuable gift called time, we should know the value of time. In this New Year, let us make new resolutions and make proper utilisation of time. Mother Mary will protect us. Our ancestors have lived their faith under Mother Mary’s abode for more than 350 years in this church. Let us continue to do the same.”
In his message, Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo said, "Let this be a blessed year under the abode of Mother Mary. Let us thank Mother Milagres. Today, a new parish pastoral council has taken charge. I congratulate all the office bearers. Jesus has given his followers in your hands. In the next 3 years, let us serve to practice the diocesan pastoral mission. Today morning, our pope emeritus Pope Benedict XVI passed away at the age of 95. He was sick due to old age. His funeral will be on January 5 in St Peter's Square. Let us pray for his departed soul. He was a very good teacher. He led the church in the lord's way.”
Fr Joy Andrade, assistant parish priest Fr Ronson D'Souza Fr Johnny, Fr Steevan and Fr Denzil Martins were present.
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