Media Release
Udupi, Jul 25: The 81st memorial feast of Fr RZ Noronha, was held in a grand and pompous manner, at St Mary's Orthodox Cathedral, Brahmavar, where he was entombed, on July 22 and 23.
In 2016 the saintly father of Brahmavar, was declared 'blessed' by the Catholicos , supreme head or pope of Indian Orthodox Church.
His grace Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, Metropolitan-Bombay Diocese, was the chief celebrant on occasion.
The feast began on Saturday, July 22, with 'Festam Vojem' or 'Horakanike', an offertory, being brought by St Thomas Church, Sastan and Sts Peter & Paul Church, Kurady. A 3 km long procession, of more than 300 people started from the cathedral into the Brahmavar town. Fr Noronha received the procession with great joy, and humbly bowed his head to the portrait of beloved 'Padre Noronha'. The Saturday service concluded with vespers. The sermon was given by Mar Coorilos.
On Sunday, July 23, the festive Mass was celebrated. Mar Coorilos was assisted in celebration of the Mass by Fr Lawrence D'Souza and Fr David Crasta, both, assistant vicars of St Mary's Cathedral, Brahmavar. In his Homily, Mar Coorilos recounted the great efforts of blessed Alvares Mar Julius and Blessed Noronha, the two stalwarts of Brahmavar Church. Mar Coorilos said, "Fr Noronha, suffered much humiliation, insult and suffering at the hands of powerful authorities. Yet, today God has raised Padre Noronha to be a blessed Saint. Hence, life of Padre Noronha should be greatly meditated upon, for it is not the worldly acclamation, but God and His righteousness that brings true glory to us."
After the Mass, incense and prayers were offered at the tomb of Padre Noronha.
On occasion, students with high scores were felicitated, and scholarships were distributed. Mar Coorilos was also felicitated and presented with a portrait of Padre Noronha.
More than 2500 faithful participated and on both days. Food was served to all.
Michael Lewis and family, Brahmavar sponsored the programme this year.
Fr Issac CA, vicar general, proposed the vote of thanks. Fr Abraham Kuriakose, Fr Noel Lewis and Fr Joseph Chacko were present on occasion.