Media Release
Hassan, Oct 15: Marching forward in the spirit of synodality—walking together, listening to one another and journeying together in mission—St Mary’s Church, Bellame, Marianagar, in the diocese of Chikmagalur, celebrated its 49th Parish Foundation Day and the feast of its patron, Our Lady, with great joy, devotion and enthusiasm on Monday.
The celebration was a colourful expression of faith, unity and communion, bringing together the parish priest, Fr R Rajendra; religious sisters; parish council members; women; youth; children; the faithful; and devotees of Mother Mary. The people of God gathered as one vibrant parish family, renewing their commitment to journey together in faith and mission for the greater glory of God.
The parish choir enriched the liturgical celebrations with melodious singing, encouraging the congregation to participate prayerfully and raise their voices in praise of the Lord. At the conclusion of the celebrations, Fr R Rajendra expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful organization of the 49th Parish Foundation Day and feast.
Solemn festal Mass and inspiring homily
The solemn festal Mass was celebrated by Fr Balaraj, parish priest of St Joseph’s Church, Joseph Nagar, who is celebrating the Silver Jubilee of his priestly ordination this year. On the occasion, he was honoured with a shawl and garland in recognition of his 25 years of dedicated priestly service.
Fr Paul D’Souza, dean and parish priest of Our Lady of Victories Church, Balehonnur, and former parish priest of Marianagar, preached the homily. He was also honoured in recognition of his significant contribution to the parish, particularly his dedicated service towards the construction of the new church.
Reflecting on the inspiring theme, “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5), drawn from the wedding feast at Cana, Fr Paul invited the faithful to deepen their trust in the Lord and faithfully follow His commandments. He emphasized that when people welcome God into their hearts and minds and remain faithful to His Word, He guides them through difficulties and works wonders in their lives. Even in moments of uncertainty and hardship, he encouraged the faithful to place their confidence in the Lord, who never abandons those who trust in Him.
Drawing inspiration from Sirach 44:8–15, which reflects on the lives and enduring legacy of faithful ancestors, Fr Paul reminded the devotees of the importance of respecting parents and elders within their families. He appealed to the faithful never to neglect their parents, especially in their old age, but to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices they have made for the welfare, happiness and well-being of their families.
He emphasized that the love, dedication, hard work and values passed on by parents form the foundation of family life and remain a precious legacy for future generations. He encouraged the faithful to understand that a person's true greatness lies not merely in fame, wealth or worldly achievements, but in a life of faith, goodness, mercy and selfless service.
Just as faithful ancestors are remembered for their virtues and wisdom, parents and elders deserve love, gratitude and honour for their invaluable contributions to their families and society. He urged the congregation to nurture a culture of care, respect and responsibility towards the elderly, ensuring that they are never abandoned or forgotten but are treated with dignity and affection.
The generous contribution of the marble altar was also acknowledged. Wilson Varuni and his wife, Varuni, were honoured for their generosity and philanthropic support towards the church. Their contribution stands as a valuable expression of faith and commitment to the spiritual life of the parish.
Nearly 30 priests from the dioceses of Chikmagalur and Mysore participated in the feast celebrations, making the occasion a significant expression of priestly fraternity, solidarity and ecclesial communion.
Three-day novena prepares the faithful
As part of the spiritual preparation for the feast, a three-day novena was conducted, offering the faithful opportunities for prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal.
First day: Mary, mother of all saints
The first day of the novena was held on October 9, marking the beginning of the three-day spiritual preparation, or triduum. Fr Patrick Johanus Rao, dean of Hassan Deanery and parish priest of St Anthony’s Church, Hassan, led the opening ceremony. A son of the soil, he hoisted the flag in honour of Mother Mary and celebrated the first day’s novena Mass.
In his homily on the theme “Mary, Mother of All Saints,” Fr Patrick encouraged the faithful to draw inspiration from the lives and examples of the saints. He urged them to imitate Mary’s faith, obedience, humility and dedication, following her example in leading others closer to Jesus Christ.
Second day: Trusting in God amid difficulties
On the second day of the novena, the Holy Mass was celebrated by Dr Fr Vincent Monteiro, a moral theologian and priest of the diocese of Mysore. In his homily, he encouraged the faithful to trust in the Lord amid the trials and difficulties of life, reminding them to remain hopeful, courageous and steadfast in their faith.
Third day: Perseverance in faith
On the third day, Fr Joel Vegas, vice-rector of St Joseph’s Minor Seminary, Chikmagalur, celebrated the Holy Mass and exhorted the faithful to remain firm in their faith, whatever challenges they might encounter in life.
These spiritual preparations helped the parish community enter into the feast with renewed faith, prayerfulness and devotion to Our Lady.
Grand Marian procession draws devotees from different communities
A major highlight of the celebration was the grand evening Marian procession organized by the parishioners. Before the procession, Fr Vijar Kumar, parish priest of Infant Jesus Church, Matasagara, offered prayers and blessed the statue of Mother Mary and the flag hoisted on the chariot.
The beautifully decorated chariot carrying the statue of Mother Mary was then taken through the streets of Marianagar amid prayers, hymns and expressions of devotion. People from different communities, irrespective of caste or creed, joined the procession, demonstrating the unifying power of faith, devotion and community fellowship.
Along the procession route, devotees welcomed the statue of Our Lady with offerings of flowers and candles, seeking her maternal intercession and heavenly blessings. The streets echoed with prayers and devotional hymns, creating an atmosphere of faith, peace and joyful celebration.
The St Mary’s band set added colour and solemnity to the procession, further enhancing the festive atmosphere. The enthusiastic participation of devotees reflected their deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the spirit of unity that characterized the celebration.
Following the procession, a solemn benediction was conducted by Fr Francis, rector of St Joseph’s Minor Seminary, Chikmagalur, who imparted the final blessings to the faithful. A colourful fireworks display brought the outdoor celebrations to a joyful conclusion.
Nearly 2,000 people participated wholeheartedly in the novena and festal celebrations, contributing to an atmosphere of faith, fellowship and joyful thanksgiving.
Clergy, religious and laity journey together
The Sisters of the Holy Cross from Ave Maria Convent, together with the parish youth, children and other parishioners, rendered dedicated and selfless service in organizing the celebrations. Their wholehearted cooperation, teamwork and commitment helped make the occasion spiritually enriching, colourful and memorable.
The active participation of the clergy, religious and lay faithful reflected the true meaning of synodality: walking together, listening to one another, sharing responsibilities and working in communion for the mission of the Church.
The celebration demonstrated how a parish community can become a living witness to the Gospel when its members work together with faith, mutual respect and a spirit of service. The cooperation of all sections of the parish community also highlighted the importance of lay participation and shared responsibility in the life and mission of the Church.
Journeying together towards the golden jubilee
As St Mary’s Church, Marianagar, approaches its golden jubilee, the 49th Parish Foundation Day stands as an important milestone in its spiritual journey. The celebration was not merely a commemoration of the parish’s history but also an invitation to renew its mission for the future.
Inspired by the spirit of synodality, the parish community is called to continue walking together through listening, dialogue, participation and shared responsibility. The collaboration of the clergy, religious and lay faithful reflects the Church’s mission of building a community where every member is valued, every voice is heard and everyone contributes to proclaiming the Gospel.
The celebration concluded as a joyful reminder of the parish’s enduring faith, unity and devotion to Our Lady. Entrusting the community’s journey to the maternal care of Mary, the faithful renewed their commitment to Christ and to a life of love, service and Christian witness.
With hearts filled with gratitude and hope, St Mary’s Church, Marianagar, looks forward to its Golden Jubilee in a spirit of synodality—walking together, listening together and serving together for the greater glory of God.