Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (KR)

Udupi, Mar 28: Scores of devotees witnessed 'Cross to Crown', a unique Lent light and sound, song and act musical presented by Harmony Udupi at Mother of Sorrows Church ground here on Sunday March 26.

Fr Chethan Lobo, editor of Uzwad, in his message said that Jesus' journey with his followers was not easy, but it was a great one. "We Christians face so many obstacles while following Christ. Jesus' followers were tortured after his death on the cross. They all faced hardships for Jesus Christ. Today, it is not like that, but we are still not bold enough to say in this multi-faith country that Jesus is the lone true saviour. To be called a true Christian, we will have to go through all trouble and come out victorious."

Fr Fred Mascarenhas, parish priest, Mother of Sorrows Church, said, "Mother Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ as per the will of God. Years later, Jesus left on his way as hence she became his first disciple. Mother Mary by following God's orders showed a lot of patience. Today, she is calling everyone to become God's children by helping the needy, forgiving others' sins and to become the strong pillars of the holy Catholic Church. Mother Mary has led by example and shown to the world that every individual's life is a Way of the Cross. She is a true inspiration for many. Let us take our Crosses and live a life according to God’s will."

Fr Valerian Mendonca, chancellor in his message spoke about religious harmony by mentioning about an incident when a journalist stayed along with Mahatma Gandhi and noticed a black and white picture of Jesus Christ. The journalist asked Gandhi why he had picture when he was not a Christian. Gandhi replied that he was a Christian, Muslim and Hindu.

Joel Rebello, Prajoth D’Sa, Rynel Sequeira, Clarita Lobo, Ayshel D’Souza, Ancilla Saldanha, Rhea Pinto, Marvel Machado and others rendered their melodious voices for the 'Cross to Crown' programme.

Lead musicians Dolwin Kolalgiri on electronic piano and melodica, Tony D’Silva on base guitar, Cloy Carvalho on cajon and percussions, Joswin D’Cunha on acoustic and electric Guitar, Kenny Pereira on soprano sax, Roshan Fernandes on acoustic drums enthralled the gathering with the soulful music.

Fr Valerian honored the singers and Fr Denis D’Sa honored the donors and the musicians.

Fr Denis D’Sa, Fr Fred Mascarenhas, Fr Chethan Lobo, Fr Clement Mascanhas and Fr Valerian Mascarenhas were honored by Harmony Udupi.

Earlier, Fr Clement Mascarenhas invoked God's blessings with a prayer. Dr Vincent Alva, narrated the entire programme in a unique way.

Harmony Udupi's Arul D’Souza, Vincent Jaya D’Souza and Terence Noronha came together to present a wonderful programme.

Lighting arrangements were the special attraction during the entire programme.