By Steevan Colaco
Udupi, Jun 22: The blessing of the renovated tabernacle of Kuntalnagar Church and the inauguration of 'Gyan Bhavan' were held on account of the titular feast of St Antony on Tuesday June 21.
The festive mass was headed by Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, bishop of Udupi diocese. Dr Albert D'Souza archbishop of Agra diocese, Fr Valerian Mendonca, chancellor of Udupi diocese and other priests were the concelebrants. Blessing of the renovated tabernacle and chantry were held prior to the mass. Bishop Gerald Issac Lobo handed over the keys of the tabernacle to Fr Denis D'Sa, parish priest of Kuntalnagar Church.
The homily was delivered by Fr Clifford Fernandes, professor of St Joseph seminary, Mangaluru. In his homily he mentioned, "God is merciful and so let us also be merciful towards the poor and the needy." He further encouraged the congregation to donate blood and save precious lives and advised them to do good deeds and be like God and St Antony. Fr Fernandes also quoted a few illustrations from the Holy Bible.
The archbishop of Argra Diocese, Dr Albert D'Souza later inaugurated the newly built 'Gyan Bhavan' and felicitated the persons responsible for renovating the tabernacle. The felicitated persons were Elias D'Souza, chief engineer, Wilson D'Souza Kayyar main artiste of the altar. Prizes were awarded to the winners of sports and games conducted by the church.
The church bulletin 'Paduvacho Parzal' was released by Bishop Dr Gerald Issac Lobo. Roshan Sequeira who has served as editor of the bulletin for the past 6 years was felicitated on the occasion.
Bishop Dr Gerald Issac D'Souza said, "A church altar is always of great importance. Whenever one enters the church it is the altar of God that is first seen. The church is the house of God. The more beautiful the tabernacle of the church is, the more we are urged to pray. Though 120 families are part of this church their service is special. I congratulate each and every parishioner on the occasion. Let us be good examples for others."
In conclusion, the bishop said, "The service rendered by Fr Denis D'Sa to the diocese as well as to the parish is enduring. I appreciate his service to the diocese." The bishop later felicitated the parish priest on behalf of everyone.
Archbishop of Argra Diocese Dr Albert D'Souza and Fr Fred Mascarenhas, dean of Udupi deanery complimented the parish priest and the parishioners on the occasion.
Fr Clement Mascarenhas, Fr Edwin D'Souza and priests of Udupi and Mangaluru diocese, Valerian Mathais, vice president of the pastoral council were present.
Fr Denis D'Sa welcomed the gathering, Nelson D'Souza, secretary of the pastoral council extended the vote of thanks. Roshan Sequeira compered the programme.