Media Release
Davanagere, Jul 22: The Legion of Mary of Our Lady of Health Minor Basilica Harihara celebrated its 12th anniversary on July 21.
Fr Franklin D’Souza, Legion of Mary Shimoga diocesan spiritual director celebrated the holy Eucharist and preached a homily on 'Jesus is our Good shepherd who has compassion on us'. He said, "Sadness and failures can never defeat us because God we worship is a mighty God, who loves us and takes care of us." He prayed over the faithful gathered.
Fr George K A, rector of Our Lady of Health Minor Basilica and Fr Richard Mascarenhas SJ were concelebrants.
After the holy Eucharist, a formal stage programme was organised at Maria Nivas School Hall. Emcee Kavya Vinod led the programme. Legion of Mary Juniors performed prayer dance. Legion of Mary Harihara president Metty Thankachan welcomed the gathering.
Legion of Mary Shimoga diocesan President Anthony Dias, Legion of Mary diocesan spiritual director Fr Franklin D’Souza, rector of Minor Basilica of Harihar Fr George K A, Legion of Mary Minor Basilica spiritual director Fr Richard Mascarenhas SJ, Legion of Mary St Thomas Church Davanagere president Kanchana and Legion of Mary Minor Basilica Harihar spiritual sister Sr Kusuma were on the dais.
Secretary Baby Clara presented the annual report.
Fr Franklin D’Souza, in his speech highlighted the importance of Legion of Mary in the diocese as well is in the parish. He said, "The Minor Basilica is a gift to us from God. This is the place of prayer and worship. Legion of Mary has a great role in creating prayerful atmosphere through their generous service." He also congratulated the efforts of Fr George K A and Fr Richard Mascarenhas SJ in building up of the Legion of Mary Association.
Fr George K A in his speech congratulated the members and invited them to continue their services in the footsteps of Blessed Mother Mary. He said, "This place is specially chosen by god and we are called to serve selflessly through our prayer and dedicated service."
Fr Richard Mascarenhas SJ said, "We all are in a holy place. Everyday we learn in this place by the visits and stories of the pilgrims. In turn we keep ourselves Holy in our lives. Legion of Mary is a wonderful platform to be at the service of the church."
Legion of Mary president Anthony Dias congratulated the organisers and admonished to keep up the spirit of the Association.
From the diocesan legion; secretary Vijaya Ratna Kumar, treasurer Arokia Raj and extention officer, and Albina Quadras were present.
St Thomas Church, Davanagere legion members were also present.
Divya Suman proposed vote of thanks. Fr Franklin D’Souza concluded the programme with prayer. Lunch was served to all.