Pics: Santhosh
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD/KR)
Udupi. Dec 27: The process of beatification and canonization of ‘Servant of God’ Fr Alfred Roche in the diocese was inaugurated on Monday December 27, in Holy Family Church Brahmavar.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop, diocese of Udupi celebrated the Holy Eucharistic celebration which also marked the 25th death anniversary of Fr Alfred Roche.
Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza, Capuchin, episcopal vicar for Religious Mangalore diocese, delivered the sermon on the day. In his homily, he said, "Today, we are beginning the official process in the diocese of beatification and canonization of Servant of God, Fr Alfred Roche. We are the eye-witnesses for this historical event. It is a matter of pride for the Konkani Christians. Servant of God is the first step in the process of attaining sainthood. The Bible refers servant as those chosen by God with a mission and those who are sent for the same. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Prophet Job, Moses, Joshua, King David and King Solomon are called as the servants of God in the Bible. The Bible, to an individual or to a group of people calls as servant. A servant refers to reaching the ultimatum. We expect honesty from our house maids and servants. We need to show the same honesty towards the church as a servant. The Pope are called as Servants of God. The almighty wants us to be good and live like faithful servants. Fr Alfred Roche loved the poor and lived a holistic life with honesty and grace. He is an example for us to live an honest and holistic life. Even after 25 years, we remember him. We pray for him to receive the honour of the altar.”
Various committees at the diocese level were formed for the cause as per the requirements of the Vatican tribunal.
Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo will head the committees. Msgr Baptist Menezes was appointed as the episcopal delegate. Fr Sunil Kumar D’Souza was appointed as promoter of justice. Fr Ravi Rajesh Serrao as notary, historical commission members are Fr Steevan D’Souza, Fr Baptist Rodrigues and Fr Joel Lopes, and Fr Santa Lopes as the vice postulator of the cause. All the commission members took oath on the occasion. The bishop administered the oaths and Msgr Baptist Menezes proclaimed the witness.
An office for conducting of the official work was also inaugurated and blessed by the bishop. The diocesan approved prayer for the cause was also released.
A website www.alfredrochecap.com, designed by Kishoo Enterprises was also launched on the occasion which will be the official website for the cause.
A prayer service was held near the tomb of Fr Alfred Roche.
In his address to the gathering, Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo said, “Fr Alfred Roche is a blessing to us. It is a historical event. I thank the almighty for this day. Today, we have begun the process officially. As per the canon law, the office will be shifted to the bishop's house in few months. If anyone is having any document or witness regarding Fr Alfred Roche, they can visit the office and produce the same.”
Fr Alwyn Dias, Capuchin, provincial minister, Holy Trinity Province rendered the vote of thanks.
Fr Victor Fernandes, parish priest, Brahmavar; Fr Patrick and other Capuchin priests and priests from the diocese took part in the Eucharistic celebration.
Watch beatification and canonization process inaugural: