Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 3: St Anne’s Friary was filled to the brim with festal cheer on August 2 as Capuchin friars along with the faithful celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Angels of Portiuncula.
The solemn eucharist in the evening was presided over by Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza and concelebrated by a good number of diocesan and religious priests from near and far.
Dr Fr Rocky D’Cunha, rector of Kripalaya, the Philosophy Seminary of Capuchins in Mysuru preached an inspiring homily. He mentioned the clear historical background for the feast of Portiuncula. As a 'Little Portion' – Portiuncula helped St Francis carry out the will of God, may it help us too to understand the plans that God has for us," he said.
The soulful choir was rendered by Padre Pio Choir group guided ably by Joe. After the holy eucharist Bishop Dr Aloysius D'Souza blessed the newly installed statues of mother Mary and Divine Mercy. Bishop Aloysius was felicitated for the wonderful service he rendered to the diocese for the last 22 years. The new bishop elect who arrived toward the end of the eucharistic celebration was welcomed and honoured.
Fr Paul Melwyn introduced the community of St Anne’s to all the guests. He also shared the information regarding the service rendered by the Capuchins in the diocese of Mangaluru and remembered everyone especially the benefactors and domestic staff.
Fr Manohar compèred the whole programme. The guests were served a sumptuous dinner.