Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 25: As part of the Jubilee Year 2025 proclaimed by Pope Francis, the Carmel Blossom students embarked on a pilgrimage to various parishes and shrines on February 24 as a spiritual journey. A group of 41 students, along with their animator, Sr Premal, Sr Prem, the administrator and office staff Lavita, went to the Pakshikere Shrine of St Jude.
Upon arrival, they received a warm welcome from Fr Leo, the resident priest of the parish, who graciously received them in the absence of Fr Anil Andrew D’Souza. Fr Leo provided a brief history of the shrine, enriching their understanding of its significance. Following this, the students devoutly participated in praying the Holy Rosary, led by David of class 8, offering intentions for the Church, including prayers for the Holy Father and for the speedy recovery of Pope Francis. After visiting the shrine and other monuments, the students explored the premises and spent some time in quiet reflection. The pilgrimage also included a visit to the tomb of Fr Stanislaus R Pereira, the founding parish priest of the church.
On their return journey, they visited the newly constructed Bondel Church, where they were warmly welcomed by Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza. The students were captivated by the beautifully renovated shrine dedicated to St Lawrence. They explored the church, marveling at its beauty and sanctity.
The next stop was St Aloysius Chapel, a true masterpiece of art. The chapel, painted by the renowned artist Bro Antonio Moscheni, SJ, from Italy between March 1899 and August 1901, left the students in awe. The intricate paintings were truly a feast for the eyes, enriching their spiritual experience.
The pilgrimage was a profound day of prayer and reflection, offering students an opportunity to seek God’s blessings in this jubilee year. They received a plenary indulgence and found immense joy in their spiritual journey. The experience deepened their faith as they prayed for the entire Church, their school, families, and other personal intentions. It was indeed a blessed and memorable day, filled with the grace of Lord Jesus, St Jude, and St Lawrence.