Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Aug 1: The nine-day novena prior to the annual feast of St Lawrence Church, Bondel began on Tuesday, August 1 with the unfurling of St Lawrence's flag here at the church premises.
Mayor Kavita Sanil who hoisted the flag said, "It is my pleasure to hoist the St Lawrence's flag and be a part of this devotional programme. Thousands of devotees visit this church for the nine days novena .This is a place of miracles. I am proud of this place as it comes under my ward. On this festive occasion, I pray that St Lawrence bless you all with prosperity."
Fr WalterD’Mello, vicar judiciary of Mangalore diocese inaugurated the novena by lighting the lamp along with guests and priests, followed by the invocation of God’s blessings with a prayer.
Earlier, parish council vice-president Henbert Pinto welcomed the guests and devotees.
The novena then began with the Eucharistic celebration. Fr Walter D’Mello was the main celebrant.
Former mayors Harinath, Mahabala Marla, deputy mayor Rajaneesh, corporators Madhukrishna, Deepak Poojary, parish priest Fr Andrew D’Souza, assistant priest Fr Vinod Lobo, resident priest Fr Leo Veigas, Fr Jaison, Stany Alvares and a large crowd of faithful were present.