Pics: Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (EP)

Mangaluru, Jan 14: The annual feast of Infant Jesus Shrine, Carmel Hill, Bikarnakatte here was held with great pomp and religious fervor on Thursday, January 14. Thousands of devotees took part in the celebrations.

Novenas with different themes on each day were held from January 5 to January 13 as a preparation for the feast.

A solemn festal mass was celebrated in Konkani by Dr Leo Cornelio, Archbishop of Bhopal at 6 pm. The theme for the feast was 'Unite the hearts, build a healthy society'.

The Archbishop was welcomed ceremoniously for the Mass by the devotees. Some items that can be used for constructive and destructive purposes were shown in the beginning of the Mass to show their effects on lives of people. The Bishop started the Mass saying that Jesus has shown us the way of truth and love and may the same Baby Jesus bless us.

The Archbishop in his homily said, "St Augustine said that our hearts are meant for Jesus. We should unite as one with Jesus. We see these days the hearts that should have been bound as one getting separated. We heard of development in the country just about one and half year ago but now we hear about intolerance instead. Jesus says that I am with you, Do not be afraid. God sent his only son for salvation. He has forgiveness. We should never think of grudge or revenge but love and forgive. God wants change in our hearts. He has created us for a special purpose. Let us join as soldiers in the mission of Jesus to unite in love and forgiveness."

Fr Charles Serrao the Carmelite provincial of Karnataka Goa province, Fr Elias D’Souza the director of the shrine, Fr Prakash D’Cunha, Fr Deep Fernandes, Fr Barnabus Monis, Fr Jossy D’Souza, Fr Walter D’Souza, Fr Stephen Pereira, Fr Gregory D’Souza and other priests and nuns with thousands of devotees participated in the feast.

During all the days of novena food was provided to devotees. 

More photos to be added soon