Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Jan 16: The annual feast of Infant Jesus 2019 at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte in the city culminated with a feast mass solemnized by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru diocese on Tuesday, January 15.
In his homily the Bishop asked the devotees to become the instruments of tolerance and peace. He said "The teachings of Jesus Christ always focused on peace and tolerance. First of all he is attached with his father Almighty. He loved entire human kind and showed the way to be become an instrument of peace. Without peace and tolerance, there is no meaning for life. Devotees are coming to the Infant Jesus Shrine in search of peace. It is the place of calmness and peace."
The Bishop also proclaimed the miracles that are happening at the Infant Jesus Shrine and the various social and community activities done by Carmelite congregation.
Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus was the main celebrant of the Mass that was held on Monday, January 14.
Along with religious priests and sisters, thousands of devotees participated in the feast.
U.T Khader, district In-charge minister , Ivan D'Souza , MLC, J R Lobo, former MLA , Bhaskar Moily, mayor of the city and many elected representatives and leaders of various political parties were present during the various offerings.
A huge number of devotees visited the shrine as a part of the feast. The feast started with nine-day Novena prayers, which were held from January 5 to 13, during which there were masses offered every day in different languages.
The formal inauguration of the festivity was held on January 4 with the votive offering procession.