Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Aug 10: The annual feast of St Lawrence Church, Bondel was held here on Friday August 10 with much devotion and gaiety, in the presence of bishop, priests and scores of devotees.
Bishop of Mangaluru diocese Dr Aloysius Paul D'souza was the main celebrant of the Mass. Fr Ronald Serrao, professor at Jeppu seminary, Fr Andrew Leo D’souza, parish priest, Bondel were the concelebrants.
In the beginning of Eucharistic Mass, the bishop said, "Life of St Lawrence delivers a simple message of victory over death. The martyr showed us how to become true followers of Christ. Even after the saint's death, God pours blessings through him. Today’s flow of devotees shows how powerful he is among the people,”
In his homily Fr Ronald Serrao said, "St Lawrence led a holy life and died as a martyr. So the feast of St Lawrence helps us strengthen our faith on Jesus Christ. St Lawrence is the role model for kindness towards poor and physically disabled. By prayer he received strength to speak on behalf of Christ. Prayer made him holy and finally gave him the crown of saint. So we should follow the path of prayer. It will make us pure and lead us to salvation,"
After the Mass bishop presented blessed candles to sponsors.
The bishop was felicitated by Fr Andrew Leo D’souza on behalf of parishioners on the occasion.
A large number of devotees thronged the church premises to seek blessings and participate in the celebrations. Various stalls at the premises added colour to the festive mood.
Evening Mass
The feast of St Lawrence at Bondel Church culminated with high Mass in the evening. Bishop-elect Msgr Peter Paul Saldanha was the main celebrant.
In his homily, he described the importance of prayer in families. He gave a call to follow Mother Mary who followed God without any expectations. He also advised the devotees to take St Lawrence as a model and love poor and disabled people.
Moodbidri MLA Umanath Kotian visited Bondel Church in the evening and offered prayers. He also met bishop-elect Msgr Peter Paul Saldanha.