Mangalore: Thousands Throng Infant Jesus Shrine for Annual Feast
Report and Pics by Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (RD)
Mangalore, Jan 8: The annual feast of Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, here was held on Thursday January 8. Over twelve thousand faithful attended the Eucharistic celebration held at Infant Jesus Shrine campus.
Bishop of Bellary diocese Fr Henry D Souza offered the Holy Mass along with several priests.
Bishop Fr Henry D Souza, in his homily to the faithful, said that at the backdrop of communal flare-ups and persecution to Christian community across the country, annual feast of Infant Jesus has the significance in restoring the peace, heal the communal wounds and promote brotherhood. Jesus had set his example by going through poverty and persecution in the hands of perpetrators at the time of his birth and later. Hence, his example should inspire everyone to live in harmony among the multi-religious and diverse cultures in our nation.
The faithful from far away parishes arrived here at large numbers, in order to offer their prayers and thank Infant Jesus for all the favours received during the past year.
Infant Jesus Shrine located at Carmel Hill here has witnessed a large gathering this year than in the past. The devotion to Infant Jesus had grown stronger over the years.
Thousands of faithful were flocking to the grand chapel to light the candles in front of Infant Jesus idol, offer prayers and collect holy oil.
The stalls selling religious literature were busy including counters accepting Holy Masses from faithful.
Carmelite priests Fr Archibald Gonsalves, Fr George Santumayer, Fr Nelson Pinto, Fr Alwyn Sequeira; Carmelite brothers expressed gratitude to large number of faithful for attending the annual feast.