Daijiworld Media Network - Katipalla

Katipalla, Jun 2: A significant milestone in the journey of Infant Mary Church, Katipalla, was marked on Sunday, June 1, with the blessing and laying of the foundation stone for the new church building and presbytery.

The solemn ceremony was presided over by Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, bishop Emeritus of the diocese of Mangalore. He led the faithful in prayer and imparted his blessings on the new initiative. In his address, the bishop encouraged the community to come together in unity and commitment, assuring them of his prayers and unwavering support for the realisation of this long-cherished dream.

Fr Austin Peres, vicar Forane of St Mother Teresa Deanery, Surathkal, was the chief guest of the event. He formally inaugurated the building project by cutting the ceremonial ribbon. Fr Santhosh Lobo, the parish priest of Katipalla, laid blessed relics within the foundation stone, marking a deeply spiritual moment in the history of the parish.

The event was also graced by engineer Lawrence Cutinha and contractor Richard Rodrigues, both instrumental figures in the construction process. Fr Austin Peres, in his address, congratulated the parish priest and the entire community, expressing his joy at seeing their aspirations begin to materialize.

Key members of the Parish Pastoral Council, Finance Committee, Building Committee, and Pastoral Commissions were actively involved in organizing the meaningful event.

Following the foundation ceremony, a solemn Eucharistic celebration was held, during which 69 parishioners received the Sacrament of Holy Confirmation, adding a spiritual dimension to the day’s significance.

The programme was well coordinated by Jyothi D’Souza, who compered the event. Saviya Monteiro, vice president of the Parish Council, extended a warm welcome to all gathered, while Vivid D’Souza, secretary of the Parish Council, proposed the vote of thanks.