Daijiworld Media Network- Mangalore
Mangalore, Nov 5: On Sunday, November 4 a felicitation function was held in honor of Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo the new Bishop of Udupi.
Both the Bishops of Mangalore and Udupi were received by the faithful and clergy at the main gate of Rosario Church.
Fr Stany Goveas and the vice president of the Church welcomed the dignitaries on behalf of the diocese by offering the flowers.
The dignitaries were taken into the church in procession led by the children’s band of St Ursula’s School of Rosario church. The felicitation function was held prior to the mass.
On behalf of the clergy and faithful of the diocese, the secretary to the diocesan pastoral council, Gerald D’ Costa read the citation and offered the same to the Bishop. On behalf of the diocesans priests and the religious, the secretary of the council of priests and the president of CRI, Sr Cecilia Mendonca offered of bouquet of flowers respectively to the Bishop.
The Bishop of Mangalore felicitated the new Bishop of Udupi in a traditional way by offering a shawl, garland, fruits and flowers and he also presented to the Bishop the keys of a Bolero vehicle as gift to the Bishop of Udupi.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, the new Bishop of Udupi thanked the Bishop of Mangalore and the clergy and faithful for their affection, love and concern. He said that it is the second time that the people of Mangalore are honoring him.
The first honor he received when he became the Bishop of Shimoga. He recalled the good will and the encouragement of the Bishop of Mangalore and the faithful, while he was the Bishop of Shimoga.
He said that the people of Udupi are educated, enthusiastic, and ready to offer service to the Church. He also said that in Udupi, the human resources are plenty and people are having leadership qualities.
He thanked the Bishop, clergy and faithful of Mangalore for their concern and thoughtfulness. During the Homily the Bishop Gerald said that Mother Mary is a model of faith for all us.
The Bishop of Mangalore presided over the felicitation function. Speaking on the occasion he said that both the Bishop Gerald and the Diocese of Udupi are very dear to him.
He said that, the diocese of Mangalore is ever ready to extend its help by sharing its resources in building the Kingdom of God. He also said that the Jesus Christ has given us the mandate to love one another by expressing brotherly concern and Charity.
The secretary to the diocesan council of priests, Fr JB Crasta welcomed the gathering and the diocesan Chancellor Fr Henry Sequiera proposed the vote of thanks.
Fr Alwyn Serrao, principal Rosario College compered the programme.
The Holy Eucharist presided by the Bishop of Udupi. A large number clergy, religious and faithful participated in the Holy Eucharist and offered their good wishes to the new Bishop after the mass.