Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala (JD)
Karkala, Jul 7: Fr Alban D'souza took over as rector of St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur on July 6. Fr Alban was formerly serving as parish priest in Stella Maris Church, Kalmady.
He was accorded with a grand welcome by the parishioners in Attur. Fr Alban is known for his divine and holistic approach to prayers.
He was instrumental in building a new boat-shaped church in Kalmady and upbringing the shrine.
Fr Jossey Fernandes conducted the handing over ceremony. A formal felicitation ceremony was held for Fr George Thomas D'Souza, former rector St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur to recognize his service in the basilica.
In a formal ceremony held in the church, Parish Pastoral Committee vice president, Santhosh D'Silva secretary, Benedicta Noronha and others honoured Fr George D'souza for his relentless efforts in uplifting the shrine to the minor basilica. Fr George D'souza played a crucial role during the proclamation and dedication of shrine as Minor basilica.
Fr George expressed his gratitude and his experiences in the shrine. He handed over the documents to the new rector Fr Alban D'souza.
Sr Prescilla Richard Pinto, convenor 18 commissions, John D'silva and others were present during the welcoming and felicitation ceremony.