Pics: Stanly Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru Nov 16: The offertory procession of St Lawrence Church, Bondel, was flagged off from Mount Carmel School on Saturday, November 16, as part of the centenary celebrations and the renovation of the church, which will be inaugurated on November 18.
The event, held on Saturday, November 17, radiated devotion, unity, and gratitude, drawing hundreds of parishioners and well-wishers.
The program commenced at 4 pm at Mount Carmel Central School, Maryhill, with a solemn prayer and the Word of God delivered by Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, setting the tone for the celebration. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest, warmly welcomed the gathering, embracing the spirit of togetherness and gratitude.
The procession began at Mount Carmel School and proceeded to St Lawrence Church, Bondel. It was flagged off by KPCC general secretary Inayath Ali, marking the start of the festivities.
Dignitaries and honors
Chief guest Inayat Ali, general secretary of the Karnataka Congress Committee, was honored with a shawl and a flower bouquet by Fr William D’Souza, assistant parish priest, symbolizing respect and hospitality. Other dignitaries received similar gestures: vicar forane Fr James D’Souza was welcomed by Fr Peter Gonsalves. Fr Arul, superior of Formation House - Betharram, was honored by John D’Silva, PPC vice president. Sr Melissa AC, principal of MCCS, was welcomed by Prakash Pinto, shrine committee convener. Sr Leela, superior of Presentation Convent, received honors from Santosh Misquith, PPC secretary. Social activist and politician M G Hegde and several priests, including Fr Paul Sebastian D’Souza, Fr Vincent Saldanha, Fr Vijay Victor D’Souza, Fr Ivan Cordeiro, and Fr Apoline Neris, were welcomed by Fr William D’Souza.
In his address, chief guest Inayat Ali commended the leadership of Fr Andrew and extended heartfelt congratulations for the centenary celebration. Reflecting on his personal connection to Christian education, he said, “I studied in a convent school, and the Christian community has established numerous educational institutions that greatly benefit and support many people.” He also generously contributed to the centenary food expenses as a gesture of support.
On November 18, St Lawrence Church will be officially declared a shrine, recognising its spiritual significance in the region.
Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, blessed the procession.
Procession highlights
The blessing of the Hore Kanike offerings, brought by parishioners, neighboring communities, and well-wishers, was a key highlight. Fr Andrew sprinkled holy water over the offerings, and the procession was inaugurated with a challan by vicar forane Fr James and Inayat Ali. The event concluded at St Lawrence Church, where the statue of St Lawrence was placed in the shrine, set to be formally inaugurated on November 18 during the centenary celebrations. The procession reflected the community’s deep faith and gratitude as diverse groups contributed generously.
Fr William D’Souza, who compered the event, extended a heartfelt vote of thanks, recognizing the contributions of Stephen D’Silva, Jason Fernandes, cultural committee members, parish council members, media representatives, photographers, and the police for their support. This procession beautifully highlighted the enduring spirit of togetherness, devotion, and faith as the community prepares to celebrate 100 years of service and spirituality at St Lawrence Church and Shrine.
The upcoming inauguration of St Lawrence Church as a shrine on November 18, along with the centenary celebrations and renovation, will be a historic moment for the parish, marking a new chapter in the church's rich legacy.