Pics: Nithin Pereira

Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala (NP)

Karkala, Jun 13: The annual feast of St Anthony Shrine, Manjarpalke, Belman was celebrated with great devotion and religious fervor on Friday, June 13. This year’s celebration marked a special occasion as it was the first feast held at the newly inaugurated shrine.

The Holy Eucharistic celebration was led by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of the diocese of Mangalore, who was the chief celebrant. In his homily, the bishop emphasized the importance of living a life rooted in faith. “Let us walk in the footsteps of St Anthony and become faithful pilgrims. Pope Francis has highlighted that faith is not limited to Christians alone, but is embraced by people of other communities as well. God has given us faith and if we truly believe in Him, we must be ready to explain why. Those who believe that God loves and saves us are indeed faithful. St Anthony is always with us and will bless us when we approach with faith and devotion.”

Fr Fred Mascharenhas, parish priest of Belman Church and rector of the shrine, extended his gratitude to all who supported the feast celebrations. Patrons of the feast were honoured with candles in appreciation of their contributions.

Fr Dr Leslie D’Souza, Vicar Var of Shirva; Fr Clement Mascharenhas, parish priest of Christ the King Church, Karkala; Fr Roshan D’Souza, Judicial Vicar; Fr Eugene Mascharenhas; and Fr Oswal Vas, assistant parish priest of Belman and several other priests also participated in the celebration.

Lunch was provided to all the devotees. A large number of devotees gathered at the shrine to take part in the solemn Eucharistic celebration, offering prayers and seeking blessings.