Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod
Kasargod, Feb 1: The annual feast of the historic Our Lady of Dolours Shrine, Bela, commenced with great devotion on Sunday, February 1, coinciding with the solemn celebration of St Sebastian. Parish Priest Fr Stany Pereira, along with Fr Rocky Fernandes, Fr Sharan Crasta, and Cyril Crasta, vice president of the Parish Council, hoisted the traditional feast flag in the presence of thousands of faithful devotees.
In his address, Fr Stany reflected on the spiritual strength required to face life’s challenges. He said, “It is common to face difficulties for many reasons, but the Holy Bible teaches us to overcome them with willpower and prayer. Thinking well of others and engaging in good deeds helps us remain tension-free. At times, people may target or mock us to demotivate us, but when we believe that our actions align with God’s will, no one can discourage us. Our motto should be to build a genuine and helpful community and society.”
Following the solemn Mass, a grand procession was held in devotion to St Sebastian. The blessed and miraculous statue of St Sebastian was carried in a beautifully adorned chariot over several kilometers, drawing thousands of participants who offered prayers with deep reverence.
The annual feast of Our Lady of Dolours Shrine will continue from February 10 to 13.
Bela Church, also known as Our Lady of Sorrows Church, is a prominent Roman Catholic church in the Kasargod district of Kerala, located 15 km north of Kasargod and 50 km from Mangaluru. Established in 1880 after separating from Ullal-Panir, the parish’s first priest was Fr Pascal Mascarenhas. His successor, Fr John D’Souza, selected the current elevated site and built a small yet elegant church, which was blessed on January 10, 1892, by Dr Pagani, the first Bishop of Mangalore diocese. The revered statue of Mother of Sorrows was ceremoniously brought from Kudrepady at that time.
Managed by the Diocese of Mangalore, Bela Church blends heritage and spirituality. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a serene ambiance for prayer and reflection. Its intricate sculptures and unique portrayal of Mother Mary draw visitors and devotees alike. The church complex, comprising both old and new structures, stands as a testament to the region’s vibrant religious history.
Notably, Bela is the oldest parish in the Kasargod district, and the mother tongue of its Catholic community is Konkani.