Report:Meena Serrao Barboza

Mangalruu, Nov 24: St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, witnessed a truly grace-filled and spiritually uplifting evening of prayerful melodies conducted by Fr Cyril Lobo and his devoted team. The atmosphere was filled with divine peace as hundreds of faithful gathered to praise, worship, and experience the gentle whisper of God’s presence.

The programme commenced with a warm and heartfelt welcome by Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the parish priest, who greeted Fr Cyril and his team with deep gratitude and spiritual joy. His words set the tone for an evening wrapped in devotion, reverence, and the profound love of God.

Beautiful hymns of praise and worship in both Kannada and Konkani lifted every heart heavenward. The melodies, blended with the Word of God, created an atmosphere of spiritual renewal—where every note became a prayer and every prayer a fragrance rising up to the Lord.

Throughout the service, the faithful listened to and reflected upon powerful Scripture passages that illuminated God’s unending love and mercy:

Psalm 150:1–2 A universal call to praise God with all our being.

“Praise God in His sanctuary… Praise Him for His mighty deeds.”

These verses reminded the faithful that worship unites heaven and earth, and that praise is the heartbeat of a thankful soul.

Luke 19:1–10 – The Story of Zacchaeus

Zacchaeus’ desire to see Jesus led to a life-changing encounter.

Jesus’ loving acceptance teaches that no soul is too lost, no sinner too distant for God’s mercy. His grace transforms, renews, and restores.

Matthew 11:28

“Come to me, all who labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”

A tender invitation from Jesus to every weary heart—promising comfort, peace, and rest for the soul.

Luke 7:38

The repentant woman’s tears expressed pure love and humility.

Her story reminds us that God values a sincere and contrite heart, and that true forgiveness flows where there is true repentance.

Isaiah 59:21 God’s everlasting covenant:

“My Spirit will remain with you… My words shall not depart from your mouth.”

A divine assurance that God’s guiding Spirit and protective hand remain with the faithful and with generations to come when they walk in His truth.

One of the most touching moments was when the faithful were given the grace-filled opportunity to touch the eucharist in the blessed sacrament.

Many experienced inner healing, profound peace, and heartfelt prayer, as the Lord poured out His spiritual blessings upon the gathering.

Sebastian and his team inspired the congregation with soul-touching bhajans that stirred devotion in every heart. Sebastian’s personal testimony—filled with faith, courage, and surrender—deeply moved everyone, reminding them of God’s providence and unfailing love in every trial.

The entire evening was a beautiful tapestry woven with music, Scripture, testimony, and eucharistic devotion. It was a powerful reminder that God dwells in the praises of His people, and when hearts come together in faith, heaven touches earth.

Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza concluded the grace-filled event by thanking Fr Cyril, his team, and the entire congregation for their participation. He encouraged everyone to continue nurturing a heart of constant prayer, gratitude, and worship—so that God’s light may shine through their lives.