Shirva: Bishop Aloysius Inaugurates New Look Irmiz Chapel 

by Wilson D`Souza - Daijiworld Media Network  Shirva

Udupi, Feb 9: The our lady of dolours Irmiz chapel is situated to right on the way from Shirva to Pernal, about 2 kms from our lady of health church , Shirva.  Fr Ronald Cutinho in his book ‘EKATA’ says “This chapel known as Irmiz in the Portuguese language was established by the Portuguese. They used to build such chapel where there were no churches, so that they could offer prayer whenever they landed in these places”.

Christianity existed in Shirva during 1534-1600. During the rule of Venkatappa Nayak (1586-1630), the king of Bidanoor, Christian agriculturists witnessed good times and Goan and Mangalorean Christians along with agriculture took the opportunity to keep faith and build churches.

This is said that in his time there was a church dedicated to our lady of health in a place called “Kodi” between Shirva and Katapady. The Irmiz Chapel came into existence during these times. It was situated in a place called “NODCHAL”.

During Msgr Hilary Gonsalves’ time the Irmiz Chapel was shifted to the place where it exists today. In the time of Fr Aloysius Rosario mass was held on Friday evening and other days. People in the neighbourhood attended these services. Later Fr Sylvester D’Souza and Fr Lawrence Gomes did the necessary renovations.

Now this Chapel is rebuilt under the leadership of Fr Valerian Pinto, parish priest of Our Lady of Health Church, Shirva. The inauguration of beautifully- rebuilt Irmiz was held on Friday February 9.

Bernard Saldanha as the inaugurated the new building. Bishop Aloysius Paul D’Souza of Mangalore blessed the chapel. Kaup MLA Lalaji R Mendon was the chief guest. The inauguration was done in the presence of Fr Valerian Pinto, priests of Shirva deanery, religious sister and devotees from all over.

While more than 15 priests concelebrated in the Eucharistic, the number of devotees crossed well over 2,000.