Report: Meena Serrao Barboza
Photography: Stanley Bantwal
Mangaluru, Aug 7: The seventh day of the novena commenced with a solemn time of Adoration at 10:30 am, followed by the Holy Eucharist at 11 am. The main celebrant was Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest of Bondel, with Fr Peter Mascarenhas as the concelebrant.
The theme of the day was “Our Hope Leads Us to Heavenly Bliss”.
In his homily, Fr Andrew reminded the faithful, "We are pilgrims of hope, called to journey toward eternal life. Our hope must rest in the Risen Christ, who leads us beyond death. Faith, love, and hope are the guiding virtues along our earthly path. By loving God and our neighbor, we fulfill His greatest commandment. Living the beatitudes and detaching from worldly desires draw us closer to heaven. Through repentance, prayer, and bearing our daily crosses, we walk with Christ toward eternal glory."
The morning liturgy was meaningfully animated by parishioners from Surathkal, Milagres, and Bondel, while the choir was beautifully led by Milagres Parish.
Throughout the day, political leaders and government employees visited the shrine, seeking the blessings of St Lawrence. Testimonies continue to pour in, bearing witness to the powerful intercession of St Lawrence and the miracles he has worked in their lives."
In the evening, adoration began at 5:30 pm, followed by the Holy Mass at 6 pm, celebrated by Fr William D’Souza, assistant administrator at Father Muller Hospital, Kankanady. Concelebrants included Fr Lawrence Cutinha, assistant parish priest, and Fr Vincent Vinod Saldanha, manager of Codialbail Press.
Preaching on the theme of the day, Fr William D’Souza inspired the faithful to remain steadfast in hope, which, he added, leads to eternal bliss. He reminded everyone that hope is the foundation of life and that placing trust in God—especially during trials—strengthens the faith journey.
He urged all to embrace the beatitudes as spiritual treasures that guide toward heaven. Drawing lessons from the unwavering hope of Abraham, the trust of Joseph, and the deep faith of Tobit, he highlighted the need for intelligence, prudence, and perseverance in the walk with God. Ultimately, he affirmed that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life—the unfailing path to eternal life.
The evening liturgy was prayerfully animated by parishioners from Vamanjoor and Bondel, with the choir led by St Anthony Katte.
Special prayers were offered for all families, that they may be filled with love and affection, and continue to live in unity, mutual support, and ever-growing closeness to God and to one another.