Sylvester D’Souza
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, May 18: The holy consecration and inauguration of St Thomas Syrian Church, Sasthan was held with divinity and glory on Tuesday May 17.
His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews III Malankara Metropolitan and Catholicos of the East, the Supreme head of the Indian (Malankara) Orthodox Syrian Church and Dr Yakob Mar Elias Bishop, Brahmavar diocese, Dr Yakob Mar Irenios Bishop, Kochi diocese and Dr Geevarghese Mar Yulios Ahamadabad diocese, consecrated and inaugurated the renovated church.
In his blessings to the faithful His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews III said, “This church is a sign of Almighty’s blessings. The church building becomes a part and parcel of the church after its blessing and consecration. People from any religious belief can visit the church and pray to the almighty.”
His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews III handed over the church keys to Fr Noel Lewis, priest, St Thomas Syrian Church Sasthan.
Evening prayers and consecration of the church was also held on the occasion.
Fr M Symathai, priest, Fr Noel Lewis, parish priest, Milton Almeida, secretary, Parish Pastoral Committee, Lawrence D’Almeida, treasurer, Moses Rodrigues, convener, renovation committee, Robert Rodrigues, secretary, Jerome Rodrigues, treasurer and other office bearers were present on the occasion.
A grand welcome procession was also held from Brahmavar St Mary’s Syrian Cathedral to Sasthan church. A large number of devotees took part in the procession.
On Wednesday May 18, the second part of the consecration prayers will begin at 6.30 am, followed by Holy Mass at 8 am and the felicitation programme. That will be followed by fellowship meal. In the evening, culture programmes will be held.