Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore
Mangalore, Jun 7: Bishop of Shimoga Dr Francis Serrao on Saturday June 7 blessed and inaugurated the Divine Mercy Church at Fatima Retreat House, Jeppu here.
After the inauguration, Dr Francis Serrao along with bishop of Mangalore Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza led the Mass in the presence of other priests.
Dr Francis Serrao mainly stressed on three aspects of devotion - to seek god's mercy, to trust in god and to be merciful to others and forgive.
During the formal programme, guest of honour, former union minister Oscar Fernandes said that he often visited Fatima Retreat House for Mass. He lauded the efforts of Fr Eugene Lobo and other priests in building a new church for the people.
Minister for health and family welfare U T Khadar announced a fund of Rs one lac for the new church and appreciated the efforts that went into constructing it. "In today's world, it is important to live in harmony and unity. We must all move forward and also take along the downtrodden and the needy who require our help," he said.
District incharge minister Ramanath Rai said that he felt blessed to be part of the programme and the Mass. He emphasized on the need for strengthening harmony and promoting peace in society.
Bishop Dr Francis Serrao and Provincial of Karnataka Jesuit Province Dr Stany D'Souza congratulated the management of Fatima Retreat House and blessed.
Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza too conveyed his best wishes and blessings. He said that the church is a second home to Christians and added that those who come to pray at the church would be blessed abundantly.
The contractor of the church building, architect, engineers and electricians were felicitated on the occasion.
Director Fatima Retreat House Fr Eugene Lobo welcomed the gathering.
Blossom Fernandes, corporator Jacintha and others were present.