Jessie Rodrigues, Bangalore

Bangalore, Aug 11: The new edifice of the Karnataka Regional Pastoral Centre was blessed by the Archbishop of Bangalore, Dr Bernard Moras on August 9, 2012 at Bangalore.

The Centre will house 18 regional Commissions of Karnataka.

In his address, the Archbishop highlighted the importance of spreading the Lord’s message loud and clear to every nook and corner of Karnataka. He thanked all those who shouldered the responsibility of erecting the structure, especially Fr Peter Brank for his relentless service to the centre and his keen interest in completing the new building in record time. He wished that more and more people benefit from the infrastructure to plan their activities for spread of faith.
 
The Centre was inaugurated by the Bishop of Shimoga and the Bishop elect of the new Diocese of Udupi, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo. He thanked the Archbishop for his genuine interest in and strong determination for establishing the new Regional Pastoral Centre.
 
Among those who addressed the audience were Bishop of Mysore, Dr Thomas Vazapilly and Bishop of Chikmagalur, Dr Anthoniappa. Several Priests, Religious Sisters and Laity from across Karnataka graced the occasion.
 
Sr Genevieve felicitated the Archbishop on the occasion of his birthday. She also felicitated Fr Faustine Lobo and Fr Peter Brank, Director of the Regional Pastoral Centre and KROSS. Among the others who were felicitated on the occasion were architects, engineers, contractors involved in the establishment of the Centre.
 
 Fr Ronald Cardoza compered the programme and Fr Lourdusamy welcomed the dignitaries and introduced them to the audience. Fr Joseph Mari led the prayer session.
 
The Kannada version of the latest letter of the Holy Father Pope Benedict VI, ‘Porta Fidei’ was released on the occasion by the Archbishop. He called on all to keep the flame of faith alive in Karnataka.
 
Finally, the Director of KROSS and the Regional Pastoral Centre, Fr Peter Brank, proposed the vote of thanks.