Pics: Stany Bantwal

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza

Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 2: Centering on the profound theme of the second day “Praying constantly is a base of Hope," the novena was held at St Lawrence church in Bondel on Fridat, August 2.

At 5.30 pm, the devotees gathered for adoration, which was then followed by a solemn mass. The mass was celebrated by Fr Cyril Lobo, director of the Bible & Liturgy Centre, Udupi Diocese who served as the main celebrant.

Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza, parish priest and Fr William D’Souza, assistant parish priest, were concelebrants.

Fr Cyril Lobo, during his homily, called on the devotees of St Lawrence to embrace the theme of the day, reflecting on how a new family can draw inspiration from the biblical passage of 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, which encourages people to "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances."

"The passage emphasizes the importance of focusing not on worldly desires but on cultivating a deep trust and connection with god. By understanding this, the family can embrace the significance of unconditional prayer—a personal conversation with God that is free of conditions or expectations. This approach to prayer fosters a spiritual foundation of hope and strengthens the family's bond through constant, heartfelt prayer," he said.

The mass featured a melodious choir from St Anthony’s Church, Kulur. During the mass and novena, special prayers were offered to all the elderly members of the community.