Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje/Roshan P D'Souza/Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (RJP)
Mangaluru, Apr 15: Christians across the twin districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi began Easter celebrations on Saturday April 15 evening, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Holy Week which began with Palm Sunday on April 9, culminates with the Easter Sunday on April 16.
Maundy Thursday and Good Friday marked the passion of Christ and crucifixion, respectively.
Rosario Cathedral
St Sebastian Church, Bendur
St Joseph's Church, Vamanjoor
Bela Church
Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikkarnakatta
The Easter vigil Masses were attended by thousands of faithful in their respective parishes including at Rosario Cathedral in city.
At Rosario Cathedral Bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza led the celebration of resurrection starting from blessing of Pascal candle which signifies the victory of light over darkness. He also blessed the fire and holy water before the Holy Eucharist began.
The Bishop in a homily asked the Christians to follow Jesus in their daily lives. He explained the meaning of the passion of the Christ which ultimately saved the sinful mankind. Jesus lived a simple life, suffered for our sins. He was crucified to save us from bondages. His resurrection showed that there is a gain after the pain, he said.
The congregation in all the churches lit Pascal candles. They chanted the psalms and scriptures which resonated in the air. The church organ, which was silent in the Lenten season, was enlivened by the choirs.