Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala (RD)
Karkala, Nov 28: Confraternity Sunday was celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes parish, Kanajar, near here on November 28 morning. It was themed on ‘Through the Eucharist – let us strengthen the bond of parishioners.
The Eucharistic Celebrations have begun at 8.30 am on Sunday, while the donors were honoured with ceremonious candles in the presence of congregation by the parish priest Fr Alwyn Edward D’Cunha. Deacon Richard Lobo assisted in the religious celebrations.
Meanwhile, the gurkars of 14 wards of parish presented a large cake of the shape of Eucharist weighing a few kilograms that was shared with the elderly and ailing parishioners after the Holy Mass.
Fr Joseph Martis, rector of St Joseph’s Seminary, Jeppu, Mangalore celebrated the Holy Mass along with Fr Alwyn Edward D’Cunha.
Fr Joseph Martis, in his homily emphasized that the mite of service of every parishioner is indeed significant in strengthening the brotherly bond of parishioners. The devotion of Eucharist will sustain the faith.
A procession of faithful was held from the parish hall, passing through the streets and concluded at the parish hall. Over 1,000 devotees were present on the occasion.
The head-load offerings were held in a traditionally-dressed both men and women parishioners on Saturday November 27 morning.
The parishioners carrying head-load offerings from Palli, Bailoor and Kamblaguri gathered at the school grounds at 11.15 am on Saturday where they were offered jaggery and water, a traditional beverage to quench their thirst.
The head-load offerings were also presented by the heads of four temples in the neighbourhood. The gram panchayat presidents also participated in the religious celebrations besides brethrens of other religions.
Capuchin Fr Valerian D’Silva conducted the prayer service.
Over 1,200 devotees were present and served with delicious meals.
The refurbished Our Lady of Lourdes church will be inaugurated by Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza of Mangalore on Monday November 29 morning.