Pics: Stanley Bantwal/Justin D'Silva
Daijiworld Media Network
Mangaluru/Udupi, Dec 31: With December 31, it was the end of yet another year. In view of the COVID-19 pandemic and spread of a new strain of coronavirus, New Year celebrations across costal districts were a low key affair. Faithful gathered in the churches in the twin districts for Holy Masses.
As a sign of gratitude to the Lord for showering His blessings upon everyone during the year, the parishioners gathered at St Lawrence Church, Bondel, in large numbers for the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. It was led by Fr Paul Melwyn D'Souza, superior of St Anne's Friary. The Solemnity of the Mary, Mother of God feast began with the Eucharistic Banquet.
St Lawrence Church, Bondel
Milagres Cathedral, Udupi
Fr Paul Melwyn D'Souza was the main celebrant. In his homily, he highlighted the importance of Mary Mother of God. Fr Andrew Leo D’souza, parish priest, Rev Fr Clifford Pinto, principal St Lawrence English Medium School, Fr Rupesh Tauro assistant parish priest, Fr Pascal and Fr Melwyn co-celebrated the Mass.
The Church choir enriched the spiritual atmosphere by singing melodiously and meaningful hymns. After the Mass, year of St Joseph was inaugurated by Fr Paul Melwyn Dsouza. Reginald D'Souza vice-president, Steevan Noronha, the secretary was present.
New Year Eve was marked at Milagres Cathedral in Udupi by celebrating Holy Eucharistic celebration. Udupi Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, was the main celebrant for the Eucharistic celebration.
In his homily, Fr Valerian Mendonca, rector, Milagres Cathedral said, "Mary, mother of God feast is celebrated today. None of us thought in the beginning of 2020 that we will encountering a pandemic. We believe that our life and future is in hands of the Almighty. We have to be thankful to Mother Milagres and Almighty for giving us the opportunity to celebrate this New Year. Around us there is much depression due to the fear of Covid and various other reasons. Let us pray to God that those suffering from depression may have a good life in this New Year.”
Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, in his message to the faithful said, "This year is dedicated to St Joseph. From March, we will be observing the year as ‘Year of Family’. Let us grace our family life. The Mission 2025 is already inaugurated. In January, training will be held for the successful implementation of this Mission 2025. The government has decided to begin school. Soon, Catechism classes will also begin. The year 2021 should be a fulfilling one. Education and health fund should be initiated to help the needy.”
Adoration of the Holy Sacrament was conducted by Fr Canute Noronha, assistant parish priest.