Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 29: The Mudipu hill which is brightened with lights, adorned with decorations, flocked with thousands of people irrespective of any differences witnessed the beginning of the annual feast of St Joseph Vaz Shrine on Thursday, November 28.

The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Dr Pius Thomas D’Souza, the bishop of Ajmer at 5.30 pm amidst a good number of people. In his homily bishop reflected on the theme 'St Joseph Vaz inspiration for Missionary life'. He gave a call to imbibe the missionary zeal that St Joseph Vaz had right from his childhood. The strength that he drew from his prayer life made him a faithful missionary.

As this day was dedicated for the sick and suffering, special prayers were offered for them. Fr Benjamin Pinto, the rector of St Joseph Vaz Shrine, thanked all those who have toiled in view of the shrine feast. Fr Lawrence D’Souza, Fr Lawrence Mascarenhas, and Fr Michael D’Souza were present.

Roshan D’Souza, vice president of Parish Pastoral Parishad and Marcel D’Souza, secretary, Parish Pastoral Parishad, honoured the bishop.

Everyone was anointed with holy oil.