Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore

Mangalore, Dec 13: The feast of Our Lady of Pompei was celebrated at Our Lady of Rosary Church here in Urva on Sunday December 11.

A festive mass was celebrated by Bishop of Mangalore diocese Fr Aloysius Paul D’Souza. The homily was preached by Superior of Carmel Hill Fr Pius James D’Souza.

He said that mother Mary told Jesus ‘Do what he says’ and Jesus taught the same in his life too.

Our Lady of Pompei was enthroned in Urva in 1895 on January 25. From 1915 onwards the Novenas began and many devotees visited Our Lady bringing forth their grievances and asking for help.

The day was celebrated here as thanksgiving through Our Lady of Pompei to God the father. Celebrations commemorated graces and blessings showered on the parish and the diocese and her devotees.

The co-celebrants of the mass Fr Richard Coelho, Fr Francis D’Souza, Fr Stany Goveas, Fr Wilson D’Souza and many other priests were present.

The Parish priest Fr Victor D’mello distributed the candles to the benefactors of the feast the responsibility of the programme was on assistant parish priest Fr Clifford Pinto, Fr Frank Rodrigues, vice-president Kevin Martis and secretary Jossy D’Souza.

The sacrament as procession was carried on after the holy mass through Urva Market Gandhi Nagar, Lady Hill Circle and back to the church. There were a number of tableaux of Our Lady. Many devotees took part in the celebrations.

Ivan Monteiro and Lucy Lobo were compered.