Media Release

Report & Photos: Canara Communication Centre

Mangaluru, Feb 2: The St Anthony Shrine at Milagres Church in Mangaluru observed the fourth day of the novena preceding the annual relic feast of St Anthony of Padua on Friday, February 2.

Fr Ashwin Crasta, asst director of Father Muller Homoeopathic College Deralakatte presided over the eucharistic mass joined by Fr J B Crasta, director of St Anthony Charitable Institutions in Jeppu, and Fr Avinash Pais, assistant director of the ashram.

Fr Ashwin’s sermon, centred on the theme "They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem," (Luke 24:33). 

Fr Ashwin emphasized, "We are not merely called, but commissioned to boldly proclaim the profound transformation found in what we have witnessed, experienced, and received. Our testimony becomes a guiding light, beckoning others to embrace the path of faith, love, and grace."

Post mass, Fr J B Crasta led the novena, specifically remembering missionaries and those involved in evangelization. The Konkani Choir from Milagres Church added a melodious dimension to the expressions of gratitude.

Active participation marked the third day of the ongoing novena, set to continue until February 7. The communal spirit was further heightened as attendees were treated to the sweet dish Payasam.

Looking ahead, the highlight of the festivities is the main celebrant Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, bishop emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, leading the main festive holy mass on February 8, at 6 pm at Milagres Church grounds. The feast's theme, "Let those who received, Proclaim," sets the tone for a day of spiritual significance and community celebration.

On the feast day, scheduled for February 8, Konkani masses are slated for 6 and 9:30 am at St Anthony Shram Jeppu, with a Malayalam mass at 4:30 pm at Milagres Church. The anticipation builds for a day filled with spiritual significance and community jubilation.