Photography: Stanly Stanley Bantwal

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza

Mangaluru, May 5: Forty-three children of St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel Parish, received their First Holy Communion during the Solemn Eucharistic celebration on Sunday. The occasion coincided with the Parish Establishment Day.

The Holy Mass was celebrated by Dr Francis Serrao, bishop of Mysore, along with Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Fr Peter Gonsalves, and other concelebrating priests.

In his homily, Fr Prem Prakash D’Souza reflected on John 14:1–12. He encouraged the children to place Jesus at the center of their lives. He urged them to grow in faith through prayer and regular participation in the Eucharist. He also inspired them to follow their patron saints.

The children actively participated in the liturgy. The choir, guided by Jasmine, enhanced the celebration. Catechism teachers prepared the children with dedication and care.

At the end of the mass, Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza thanked the bishop, priests, teachers, and faithful. Each communicant received a rosary and a scapular.

A felicitation programme followed. The children presented a thanksgiving hymn and an action song. A cake-cutting ceremony was held. Each child was given a bible and a certificate.

In his message, bishop Francis Serrao reminded the children that Jesus comes into their hearts with love. He encouraged them to remain close to Him always.

Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza congratulated the children and thanked all who contributed to the celebration. Fr James D’Souza also extended his wishes.

The catechism teachers were felicitated for their service. The programme was compered by Ninisha Monteiro.

The celebration ended with a vote of thanks, group photograph, and a fellowship meal, followed by cultural performances.