Pics: Clement
Fr Evan Gomes SVD
Sunday, Oct 2: Divine Call Retreat Centre at Karnad, Mulki, celebrated the 12th anniversary of its commencement on Saturday, 1 October. It was on this very day, back in 2004, that the centre came into existence.
The usual Saturday Retreat marked the day. It was well attended by a big number of devotees, who come to the centre regularly, especially for the Saturday retreat.The celebrations included a day of prayer from 9 AM to 3 PM, with the solemn festive Mass which was celebrated by Fr Valerian Pius Fernandes SVD, the director of Divine Call Centre, and concelebrated by other priests of the centre and the SVD congregation.
Fr Valerian Fernandes SVD delved deep into the understanding of the theme of the Sunday liturgical readings. In his homily, he spoke about the faith of our ancestors, which he said was seen not in mere words but their actions. He further said that 'faith' is not something that is visible in words, it is an active participation, not a passive observation and demonstrated this view with apt stories and life experiences of the people. He continued his homily by calling on the faithful to reflect on the Sunday’s Gospel theme.
Many from the nearby parishes and from far and wide had gathered for the celebration. After the Eucharistic celebration, the director of the centre expressed his gratitude to the people and thanked all the sponsors, donors, benefactors, well wishers, friends for their generosity and prayers for the growth of the centre, where thousands of people continue to experience the healing touch.The day’s programme continued by a well-attended adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with intercessory prayers and healing service. Many came forward with their testimonies.
Festive lunch was served to all those who attended the centre's anniversary celebration. Fr Mervin Noronha SVD, Rector of Kirem Minor Seminary, Fr Evan Gomes SVD, Fr Francline Machado SVD, Fr Anil Kiran Fernandes SVD were present on the occasion.
Night Vigil
The Night Vigil began at 6 PM with praise and worship, Word of God, special prayers, adoration, Divine Mercy prayer, Healing service, deliverance, anointing of Holy Spirit, and concluded with holy Eucharistic celebration.
An enthusiastic crowd participated patiently and prayerfully in the entire night vigil. It was a joy to see so many faithful keep aside all their work at the weekend and participate in the prayer ceremony. It was a wonderful experience for many who had participated in the day's celebration.