Media Release

Mangaluru, Dec 4: The beginning of the annual feast of St Joseph Vaz Shrine on December 3, the solemn eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr Shaun Rodrigues, the assistant parish priest of Cordel church at 5.00 pm. As this day was dedicated to the sick and suffering, special prayers were offered for them. Fr Benjamin Pinto, the Rector of St Joseph Vaz Shrine thanked all those who have toiled in view of the shrine feast. Msgr Maxim L Noronha, the vicar general of Mangaluru diocese, Fr Cyprian Pinto, dean of St Joseph Vaz deanery and guest priests were present.

The second day of the annual feast of St Joseph Vaz Shrine was celebrated with great devotion on December 4. At 10.00 am Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of Mangaluru was given an affectionate welcome, after which he distributed the murdom candles to all the donors. At 10.30 am the solemn eucharistic celebration was presided over by the bishop, amidst a good number of faithful. In his homily, the bishop reflected on the life of St Joseph Vaz. He released a prayer book for the preparation of Christmas novena which was published by Fr Vijay Machado.

Fr Benjamin Pinto, the rector of St Joseph Vaz Shrine thanked the bishop profusely for his constant support and guidance. He expressed his gratitude to all those who worked for the smooth functioning of the annual feast. Naveen D’Souza, the vice-president of the parish pastoral parishad honoured the bishop. Fr Cyprian Pinto, the dean of St Joseph Vaz deanery and Fr Cyril Lobo, the assistant parish priest and guest priests were present. Fr Vijay Machado, director of Mangala Jyothi animated the liturgy of the annual feast.

On December 5 and 6 festal masses will be held at 10.30 am and 5.00 pm.