News & Pics: Ivan Pinto
Daijiworld Media Network – Raichur (EP)

Raichur, Nov 3: ‘Resurrection of Jesus Church’ at Kavithala gram of Manvi Taluk of Raichur district is a historic church. Kavithala has a population of nearly 18-20 thousands. It has nearly 80 Catholic families and there are around 300 more Catholic families in the suburbs. The church has a total of 3,000 Catholics.

A five day retreat commenced here with a holy mass on October 27. The retreat was inaugurated by Raichur zilla panchayat president Sarojamma Basavaraj. Jeevan Jyothi team Fr Elias, Church priest Fr Ivan Pinto, assistant priest, Fr Periyanayagam and orphanage heads Sr Divya among others were present on the dais.

Fr Ivan Pinto gave an introductory speech for the retreat. Taluk panchayat president Dananagowda spoke saying that the retreat would strengthen the faith in the Almighty.

Brothers of Jeevan Jyothi said that the intention and needs of the faithful would be fulfilled by God through prayer retreat.

Milk and bread was served to all devotees who attended the retreat.

The devotion of Communion was held as part of the retreat. The intentions of the devotees were read. The congregation prayed for the good health of the people. Many received healings after the prayer and witnessed the same in front of the gathering.
 
During the retreat, a special prayer session was held for children. Arrangements for dinner and accommodation were made for those who came after 8.30 pm. More than 1,000 people took part in the retreat on the first day. Devotees shared their experience and said that the retreat has made them grow in faith.
 
The second day started with rosary. Brother Robert and Jeevan gave sermon on certain phrases from the Bible. Many people belonging to other religions also came for the retreat and requested prayers for their well-being.Devotees had come early with enthusiasm to listen to the preaching.

Later Fr A Arokyanathan offered mass and prayed for the faithful. Fr Alias gave sermon on love and relationship-bonds.

The third day's prayer meeting started with rosary as usual. They asked the intercession of mother Mary to fulfil their intentions. Fr Ivan Pinto prayed for their intentions.

The fourth day's programme started after having received the blessings from mother Mary by rosary. The fifth day's retreat witnessed a large number of people. The priests preached to trust in God in order to be bestowed with favours.

Bellary diocese Bishop, Dr Henry D'Souza celebrated the mass. The retreat was very helpful in enhancing the faith and confidence in God.

In the concluding ceremony, chief guest, N S Bosuraju, member of Karnataka Vidhana Parishat, said that the work of the church in education, health, social and religious spheres were praiseworthy. "May the church be a guiding light for the people in the area. Ballary diocese has brought in welcome changes in Hyderabad and Karnataka", he added.
 
MLA Hampayya Nayak said that the church provides education to the poor. “The church priests are doing the work not done by the government”.  

Excellent headmistress award winner Sr Kanthi and Sr Divya who have served the poor for 25 years, were felicitated on the occasion. President Dr Henry D'Souza asked people to live as children of God. Fr Ivan Pinto proposed vote of thanks. Meals were served to all those who were present.