Silvester D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur (SP)
Kundapur, May 18: The inaugural of the renovated building of Immaculate Conception Church, Gangolli in the taluk falling within Udupi diocese was held on Thursday May 18 morning.
Bishop of Udupi, Gerald Issac Lobo, inaugurated the building, performed Holy Eucharist and delivered benedictory address on the occasion. After the inaugural of the building, he also blessed the church building by sprinkling holy water.
On this occasion, Bishop of Gulbarga Fr Robert M Miranda, delivered a discourse. In his address, Bishop Miranda recalled that being the mother of Jesus, Mother Mary had gifted the Lord to the world with the blessings of the god. "She was Mariam till she became Mother of Immaculate Conception with the birth of Jesus. The people of Gangolli are lucky that they have such an ancient church which is backed by impressive history. In the face of any natural calamities, the Mother will extend protection to her devotees just like a mother saves her children in time of crisis," he stated.
Priests of different churches falling under a number of dioceses and thousands of devotees took part in the Holy Eucharist and got contented with a feeling of purification and fulfillment.
Udupi diocese Bishop Dr Gerald Issac Lobo said, “The places of worship have a special significance in Indian culture. The churches are the ones which create a strong bond between God and man. God always lives among us. Church is the path for Catholics to heaven. If one comes and prays at the Church, the Almighty does not send them back empty handed, but fulfills their needs."
“The Gangolli Church of Immaculate Conception which has a history of 400 years is not restricted to any religion or caste. People belonging to all religions can come here and pray. The Church constructed by Catholic community members taking help from members of all the communities is a symbol of sacrifice and hard work. It is commendable that all have worked here like members of one family,” he added.
Rajya Sabha member Oscar Fernandes, who was the chief guest, speaking on the occasion, said that Gangolli church has an amazing history. “People of all communities have sent a message to the society by building the beautiful church. The country can be taken to greater heights if the example and tradition shown by people here are continued. Now that this beautiful church is constructed, there should be efforts towards education, health and social causes,” he said.
Byndoor MLA K Gopala Poojary released the souvenir and conveyed his best wishes.
Chief Guest, Gulbarga diocese Bishop Fr Dr Robert Miranda, Kundapur diocese priest Fr Anil D'Souza, MLA Ivan D'Souza, former parish priest of the Church Fr Alphonso D'Lima conveyed their best wishes.
Parish priest Fr Albert Crasta and former parish priest Fr Alphonso D'Lima who were instrumental in the reconstruction of the church and donors were felicitated on the occasion.
Blossom Fernandes, entrepreneur M M Ibrahim, Gangolli grama panchayat administrator Seetharama Shetty, Carmel convent head Sr Julian, church parish pastoral council vice-president Jerald Crasta, secretary Preethi Fernandes were present.
Church parish priest Fr Albert Crasta welcomed and delivered the keynote address. Ovin Rebello and Lavita Pinto compered the programme.