Mangalore: Bendore Parish Priest Fr Peter Noronha Celebrates 50 Years of Priesthood
Pics by Dayananda Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (RD/CN)
Mangalore, Jan 31: The 75th birthday celebration and 50th sacerdotal anniversary of Fr Peter Noronha, parish priest of St Sebastian Church, Bendore, was held here on Monday January 31.
Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza of Mangalore diocese, Bishop Dr Lawrence Mukkuzhy of Beltangady diocese, and vicar general Monsignor Victor D’Souza, Archdiocese of New Delhi, were the main celebrants of the Holy Mass held at Bendore parish here. Professor Vincent Crasta and Alwyn Peter D’Souza conducted the liturgical service.
Over 150 priests from all over Karnataka and the country were present on the occasion.
Milagres parish priest Fr Walter D’Mello, in his homily, highlighted the spiritual virtues of Fr Noronha in fulfilling the divine will of God throughout his priesthood.
Prof Eric Patrao read the blessings from Pope Benedict XVI on the occasion.
Bishop Aloysius felicitated Fr Noronha by draping a shawl, presenting the Papal blessing, and a fruit bowl containing an inscription.
Bendore parish council secretary Laveena S John presented a jasmine garland to Fr Noronha on the occasion.
Prof Patrao and reception committee conveners J R Lobo and Philomena Lobo welcomed the gathering. Sheldon Crasta and Eleen D’Souza compered the programme.
A large number of parishioners and well-wishers of Fr Noronha were present on the occasion.
Fr Noronha has served in many parishes including Bantwal, Katipalla, Udupi, and brought about changes and improvements. He served as director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, Kankanady, for a decade, during which time the institution witnessed the setting up of the Homeopathic College and College of Nursing besides many other improvements. At present, he serves as parish priest of St Sebastian parish where he celebrated the golden jubilee celebration of his priesthood.