Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 16: The 2025 Jubilee Year was solemnly celebrated at St Joseph’s Parish, Pezar on April 15. The celebration marked a historic moment in the diocese of Mangalore and drew thousands of faithful from surrounding regions.
The church grounds were filled with devotees who participated in a day of intense spiritual devotion. Intercessory prayers, the Divine Mercy Rosary, and Eucharistic adoration were led by Fr Clifford Fernandes, Alwyn D’Souza, and the charismatic group of the Mangalore diocese.
Pilgrims from Pezar, and parishioners from Bajpe, Ferar, Permude, Gurupura, and Adyapadi expressed their devotion by walking in prayerful procession from the Bajpe check post to Pezar church, chanting prayers along the way.
The highlight of the celebration was the Holy Eucharistic Mass celebrated by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of the diocese of Mangalore, along with other priests from Pezar. During the event, the bishop honoured all sponsors, organisers, and donors by presenting them with blessed candles both before and after the Mass.
The 241st annual Way of the Cross commenced from Pezar church. Notably, the sixth station—Veronica wipes the face of Jesus—and the Thirteenth Station—The body of Jesus is taken down from the cross—were reverently enacted by the devotees, adding a moving and special dimension to the entire programme.
Fr Denis D’Sa, PRO of the Udupi diocese and parish priest of Thottam parish, delivered a meaningful reflection, encouraging the faithful to draw strength and courage from the Passion of Christ during their personal sufferings.
The entire gathering, filled with faith and devotion, venerated the Holy Crucifix as they followed the Way of the Cross. The solemn procession was led by the bishop of Mangalore, priests, and lay faithful, with over 5,000 participants joining in this sacred observance.
The day-long spiritual celebration concluded in the night followed by a fellowship meal shared by all.