Mangalore: Parish Feast of Our Lady of Pompeii Urwa - Pictures
Pics: Cyril Fernandes Urwa
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (RD)
Mangalore, Dec 14: The annual feast of Our Lady Pompei Shrine, Urwa, here was held with great fervour and devotion on Sunday December 14 evening.
The annual feast was themed as "Mary, the Woman of the Word of God" - Through Word of God Mary surrendered herself to the will of God.
The solemn festal Eucharistic Mass was offered by Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D Souza along with St Joseph's Seminary professor Fr Paul Saldanha, Fr Victor D'Mello, P.P., Fr andrew Lewis, Former P.P. and other priests. (Priests from Episcopal City Deanery).
Fr Peter Paul Saldanha in his homily to the faithful narrated Mother Mary's virtues led to her surrendering to the will of God by giving birth to saviour Jesus Christ in the manger. She lived every moment of her life with Jesus bearing witness to his sufferings and final triumph on resurrection. Her humble deeds on earth bore Mother Mary eternal glory. Hence, the need for every faithful to seek the help of Mother Mary during every days struggles, trials, tribulations and at hard times.
Melodius and Devotional Choir was conducted by Fr Vijay Machado, the Asst P.P. Whole programme was cordinated by MrJossy D'Souza and Mrs Rose D'Souza, under the leadership of Vice President Mr Kevin Martis.
Special novenas and prayers for sick and confessions were held from Friday December 5 to Friday December 13, in preparation to annual feast at Our Lady of Pompeii shrine here. The parishioners and others from neighbouring parishes attended these services in large numbers.
Eucharistic procession was held at the open grounds and adoration of Holy Sacrament observed after the solemn Eucharistic Mass. Colourful display of firecrackers added flavour to festive occasion in the neighbourhood.
Thousands of devotees regardless of caste, creed and religion thronged the campus of Our Lady of Pompeii parish, to partake in the Eucharistic service and to contribute their offerings at the various offerings boxes placed at Grotto and other locations.
Our Lady of Pompeii Shrine beckons the devotees from all over the country and abroad, especially during the annual feast. This worship has been maintained in its original tradition as it was followed since centuries.
On every Wednesday's rosary, Holy Mass, novenas and special prayers to sick are being held from 5.15 p m to 6.30 p m throughout the year at Our Lady of Pompeii shrine, here. Devotees can send thier intentions or petitions through mail: urwachurch@gmail.com