Media Release

Karkala, Jan 23: The third day of the feast of St. Lawrence at Karkal Attur Basilica was marked by prayers and devotions. Thousands of people flocked to the Shrine to pay their reverence and love towards the Saint. The day’s masses were celebrated by Fr. Joaquim D’Souza OFM Cap, Fr Alwyn Sequeira OCD, Fr Vincent Coelho of Byndoor, Fr Leo Praveen of Udyavar, Fr Louis D’Sa of Nakre, Fr Anil D’Souza of Perampally, Fr Walter D’Mello of Beltangady, Fr Onil D’Souza of Moodbidri, and Fr Herald Pereira of Kanajar.

The theme of the day was “Pray that you may not fall into temptations”—the prayer of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. All celebrants preached on the theme of temptations that we all face today, drawing us away from Christ. Prayers were offered for the sick during and after every mass.

The main Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Fr Jevarghese Mar Makarios, the Bishop of Puttur.

In his homily, Bishop Macarios said, “We are all tempted, but in our temptations, we don’t despair; instead, we look up to Christ, who was tempted more than any one of us. Let us cooperate with the Grace and overcome all obstacles that take us away from Christ.” The last Mass was celebrated at 10 pm. Fr Alban, the rector of Basilica, Fr Larry, assistant pastor, Fr Cyril, the director of Liturgical Center, and Msgr. Ferdinand Gonsalves were present for the occasion.