Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (KR)
Udupi, Aug 15: In a historic moment for Udupi diocese, Fr Alfred Roche, OFM, Capuchin was declared as Servant of God by Udupi bishop Dr Gerald Issac Lobo in a simple ceremony held at Holy Family Church, Brahmavar, in the presence of Fr Alwyn Dias, provincial, Holy Trinity Province of Karnataka on Sunday August 15.
Fr Victor Fernandes, parish priest, Holy Family Church, Fr Roshan Menezes, episcopal vicar, religious, diocese of Udupi, Fr Vincent Furtado, ex-provincial, Fr Santan Lopes, vice-postulator of the cause of Fr Alfred Roche, Fr Chethan Lobo, PRO, diocese of Udupi, Fr Paul Melwyn D'Souza, superior, St Ann's Friary, Mangaluru and other priests from the diocese, capuchin congregation were concelebrants were present.
In his address, Dr Gerald Issac Lobo said, "Today is a unique occasion with triple celebrations – commemorating the feast of ascension of Blessed Virgin Mother Mary into heaven, platinum jubilee year of Indian Independence Day and the grand initiation of Fr Alfred Roche's canonization. This is an occasion to thank God and pray for our nation, through the intercession of our heavenly Mother Mary. The occasions may be different but celebrations are one, and that is independence."
In his homily, Fr Roshan Menezes, episcopal vicar for religious, diocese of Udupi said, "Who is a saint? What is a saintly life? In simple words, a saint is one who is inspired by Jesus Christ and lives a life acceptable to God and his men in this world. Fr Alfred Roche was one such person. He was a bridge connecting God and people and people among themselves. He lit a lamp of understanding, knowledge and fraternity like Mother Mary who was an epitome of humble, simple and helpful life.
Fr Menezes specifically invited the faithful to come and pray near the tomb and light the candle and exchange their worries with grace and blessings through Fr Roche.
Dr Gerald Issac Lobo read out the official letter received from the Vatican dated March 26, 2021, authorising to commence the process.
Fr Alwyn Dias thanked all members associated with the cause. Fr Chethan narrated the declaration process.
After the Holy Eucharistic celebrations, devotees and priests visited the graveyard where Fr Alfred Roche was laid to rest. Bishop of Udupi diocese blessed the graveyard and made a small prayer services.
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