Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Apr 19: Udupi is all set for the historic episcopal ordination of Msgr Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza as the second bishop of the diocese of Udupi. The grand ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday, April 20, at the Milagres College grounds in Kallianpur.

The route from Santhekatte bus stand to the Milagres Cathedral premises has been beautifully decorated with large welcome arches and congratulatory banners. The main stage is fully prepared for the solemn ordination and installation ceremony, which will be conducted alongside the Holy Eucharistic celebration. Around 35 bishops are expected to be present on stage, followed by a public felicitation programme at the same venue.

Arrangements for the faithful Extensive arrangements have been made for the comfort of the faithful, including a large seating pandal, fans to combat the summer heat, adequate drinking water, and washroom facilities. To maintain the sanctity of the ceremony, photography and videography by the public near the stage have been restricted, though special arrangements have been made for media coverage. The entire event will be live-streamed for devotees across the globe.

The programme will commence at 8:15 am with a traditional welcome ceremony at the entrance of Milagres Cathedral. Dignitaries attending the event include Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, archbishop Peter Machado, apostolic administrator Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, apostolic nuncio to India and Nepal Leopoldo Girelli, and bishop-elect Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza.

The ceremony is expected to witness the participation of over 30 bishops, 250 priests, an equal number of nuns, and around 6,000 faithful, along with several social and political leaders. Volunteers and the police department have ensured meticulous arrangements for crowd and traffic management.

Parking and transport Parking facilities have been organized across multiple locations:

• Milagres Cathedral premises: Dignitaries and media.

• Milagres English Medium School and College: Clergy and nuns.

• Mount Rosary Church grounds: General public.

• Additional grounds: Wilson Fernandes ground, Pai school grounds, Jovita grounds, Milagres Home, Alwyn Nazareth ground, and Nejar grounds.

Special bus and tempo services have been arranged to transport attendees from the Mount Rosary Church parking area to the main venue.