News : Fr Jawahar J Coutinho
Pics: Studio Aurora

Mangaluru, Aug 4: St Ann’s Friary was soaked in the festal cheer on Wednesday, August 2, as the Capuchin Friars along with the faithful celebrated the feast of Our Lady of the Angels of Portiuncula.

The solemn Eucharist in the evening was celebrated by Dr Ignatius D'Souza, bishop of the Barelli Diocese and was concelebrated by a large number of guest priests from near and far, including Fr Melwyn, the guardian, and the community friars.

In his inspiring homily, bishop Ignatius recalled his own experience at Portiuncula, Assisi. "Just as the 'Little Portion' – Portiuncula helped St Francis carry out the will of God, may it help us understand the plans that God has for us," he said.

He invited all the faithful to take inspiration from St Francis of Assisi, for whom the Chapel of Portiuncula became a cradle of wisdom, knowledge, and devotion.  

The soulful choir was rendered by the Padre Pio choir group guided ably by Joel Pereira.

Soon after the Holy Eucharist bishop Ignatius was felicitated for his great service to the Diocese of Barelli. Fr Paul Melwyn introduced the community of St Ann’s to all the guests. He also shared the information regarding the service rendered by the capuchins in the Diocese of Mangalore and gratefully remembered everyone, especially the benefactors, and domestic staff.

A book ‘Rozar Mayek Utram Kurov’ - reflections on the various titles of Mother Mary was released during the programme, by Bishop Ignatius. Fr Manohar thanked all the guest priests, religious brothers and sisters, friends, benefactors and the gathered faithful for their loving presence. Fr Jawahar compèred the programme. The guests were served a sumptuous dinner.