Media Release

Karkala, Jan 24: The Wednesday of January 24 marks the fourth day of the St Lawrence feast at Karkala's Attur Basilica, attracting thousands of devotees throughout the day. The main day of the feast witnessed a significant turnout, with people flocking to the shrine from morning until evening.

On the eve of the feast, U T Khader, speaker of Karnataka Legislative Assembly, paid a visit to the shrine. He offered homage to the saint, engaged with the people and priests, setting a festive tone for the day.

Masses on this special day were celebrated by various priests, including Fr John Vas from Fr Mullers, Fr Albert Crasta from Piusnagar, Fr Pradeep Cardoza from Moodbelle, Fr Francis Menezes SJ from Gulbarga, Fr Robert Crasta from Gulbarga, Fr Leslie D’Souza from Shirva, Fr Alban D'Souza from Attur Shrine, and Fr Roy Lobo from Udupi.

The theme of the day revolved around the words of Jesus, "For everyone who asks receives," taken from the Gospel of Luke. The main Eucharistic Celebration at 10 am was presided over by Gerald Isaac Lobo, the bishop of Udupi. In his homily, Bishop Lobo emphasized the generosity of God in providing for the needs of His people. He highlighted the importance of prayer as the royal road to building a filial relationship with God, emphasizing that faithful requests for the benefit of our souls will be granted.

The last Mass of the day took place at 10 pm, and prayers for the sick were offered after each Mass. Confessional ministry, managed by over 25 priests, was available throughout the day. The smooth flow of all religious services was overseen by numerous volunteers and local police, ensuring an unhindered and peaceful environment.