Media Release

Mangaluru, Feb 3: The St Anthony Shrine at Milagres Church in Mangaluru marked the fifth day of the novena preceding the annual relic feast of St Anthony of Padua on February 3.

The eucharistic mass was presided over by Fr Robin Santhumayor, assistant parish priest of Milagres Church, along with Fr J B Crasta, director of St Anthony Charitable Institutions in Jeppu, Fr Gilbert D’Souza, spiritual director, and Fr Nelson Peris, assistant director of the ashram.

Fr Robin's sermon focused on cultivating hope and trust in the Lord, underlining the inevitability of sickness and suffering in our lives. He urged the congregation to embrace suffering, show compassion to those enduring it, and engage in fervent prayer for healing and deliverance.

Following the Mass, Fr Nelson Peris led the novena, with special prayers for those working abroad. The St Anthony Ashram Choir members added a melodious dimension to the expressions of gratitude.

Active participation characterized the fifth day of the ongoing novena, set to continue until February 7. The communal spirit was heightened as attendees enjoyed the sweet dish, Payasam.

Looking forward, the festivities' highlight is the main celebrant, Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, bishop emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, leading the main festive holy Mass on February 8 at 6 pm at Milagres Church grounds. The feast's theme, ‘Let those who received, Proclaim,’ sets the tone for a day of spiritual significance and community celebration.

On the feast day, scheduled for February 8, Konkani Masses are slated for 6 and 9 30 am at St Anthony Shram Jeppu, with a Malayalam Mass at 4 30 pm at Milagres Church. Anticipation builds for a day filled with spiritual significance and community jubilation.