Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur (SP)

Kundapur, May 13: Gangolli has been identified as one of the leading fishing ports of Karnataka. Gangolli has its own cultural and religious heritage, and it is a perfect example for the concept of unity in diversity. As if to depict the harmonious coexistence practised by the populace of this beautiful village, a number of religious centres dot this place. One among them happens to be the sacred centre of Christians, Immaculate Conception Church.

This church has 210 families spread over seven Varados under it's umbrella. These families are spread over Gangolli, Gujjady, and Hemmady panchayats. Different committees and institutions have been providing their valuable services towards leading the Christian community here on the path of prosperity. Several divine calling have been guiding this community with the support of a number of priests and religious sisters all over the world. All of them have dedicated their lives to spread the message of Jesus all over the world. Currently, the Immaculate Conception Church has been renovated beautifully. The renovated church is now ready for being dedicated to the world. A grand programme is being held on May 18 to dedicate the fully renovated church to the world.

Gangolli has come to be recognized as an important commercial centre since the times of Vijayanagara lineage of kings. It was under the rule of Nayaka lineage of Keladi. A Portuguese officer, Miguel DE' Noronha, built a fort at Gangolli in 1630 AD. He also constructed a small church there, and dedicated it to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. Priests from Goa, Fr George DE Concessao and Fr Francis Corderio of the Franciscan Order used to offer mass here.

In course of time, the number families reposing faith in Christianity swelled, and the church moved on the path of development. It has now emerged as a prominent religious centre of Christians. The areas currently falling under the churches at Byndoor, Padukone, and Trasi, used to be covered by the Immaculate Conception church here.

The church, which witnessed religious, social, and historic ups and downs, did not have a proper and secure building till early 1800 AD. As if by divine interference, Louis D'Silva from Trasi dreamt of something big in the year 1812. Louis, who was a farmer, was backed by the experience of visiting several places. Having been captivated by the lovely churches of Goa, he planned to build one such church in Gangolli. The church thereafter continued to progress with the support of several priests who offered spiritual services and guidance. Fr Joseph D'Souza, who was appointed as priest of this church in the year 1956, expanded the building of the church, duly retaining the altar and the front tower.

Then came Fr Michael Noronha, who served this church for 18 years after having been appointed the priest of the church in 1962. He was a divine soul who provided a new dimension to the Christian community here and made invaluable contributions to the society. On account of his farsighted approach, apostolic religious sisters arrived in Gangolli, and Carmel Convent started functioning. In course of time, he also set up Holy Cross Hospital at Trasi, which then formed a part of Gangolli church. Stella Maris high school that was started here revolutionized the education sector in the region. This campaign continued and the opening of St Joseph higher primary school added a new chapter to the educational sector. Priest Michael Noronha, who was a disciple of St Joseph Vaz, created St Joseph Vaz auditorium. During his period, a new wall was built behind the church and the sacristy was repaired.

Fr A A Serrao, Fr Thomas D'Sa, Fr Peter Nazareth, Fr Albert Menezes, Fr Felix Noronha, Fr Anil Carnelio, Fr Stany Pereira, and Fr Alphonses D'Lima, who followed Fr Michael Noronha, also selflessly served the community here.

As per a story handed down the generations, Arabian Sea had swelled once and its huge waves had begun to lash he wall located to the back of the church building. Shaken by this incident, Christians shifted idols, equipment used for worship and other items to safe place from the church. However, they could not move the idol of Virgin Mother of Immaculate Conception from its main altar. After putting in herculean efforts, the people failed to move the idol and then went back disappointed. The people had a miraculous experience next morning. They saw that the sea that had surged ahead aggressively the previous day had beaten a hasty retreat. The people who went inside the church witnessed another miracle. The idol of the Mother that could not be moved the previous day had turned facing the sea.

Fr Albert Crasta, who was appointed as the priest of this church in 2015 has succeeded in electrifying the Christian community of Gangolli. During his period, renovation and reconstruction of the church, which had remained a dream since the last many years, could be realized. This mega project, which was conceived during the period of Fr Alphonses D'lima could get a clear shape in the coming years. Under the able guidance of Fr Crasta, this mammoth project could be executed.

Foundation stone for the new building of the church was laid by Bishop of Udupi, Fr Gerald Issac Lobo, on January 15, 2015. With the unselfish services of members of the parish council who are energetic and enthusiastic, the dream of renovation and reconstruction got a definite shape with the help of the local community and largehearted donors. The construction was completed in 16 months. Bishop of Udupi, Fr Gerald Issac Lobo, will be blessing the premises and dedicating the church to the world on May 18, 2017.

The church is leading towards brighter days with each passing day under Fr Albert Crasta. Vice president of the parish council, Gerald Crasta, secretary, Preethi Fernandes, and members of the council, Christian community and well-wishers have been contributing to the progress of the church towards a brighter future.