Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala (SP)

Karkala, Jan 11: The annual feast at the shrine of St Lawrence, Attur near here, which is popularly known with the name, 'Attur Sant Mari', attracts large crowds from all over the state every year. People belonging to all religions have since long, come to believe in the power of this pilgrimage centre to grant their wishes and wipe out their tears.

This year, the annual festival is being held from January 24 to 28. During these five days, 41 masses have been scheduled, and five Bishops from different dioceses will take part.

Holy Eucharists are being arranged for the children on January 24 and for the sick on January 25 in Konkani followed with special prayers. The mass at 4.30 pm on January 26 will be celebrated by Bishop of Varanasi, Dr Eugene, in English, while the festival mass in Kannada will be celebrated at 6 pm by Ballari Bishop, Dr Henry D'Souza. Beltangadty Bishop, Dr Lawrence Mukkuzhi, will celebrate mass in Kannada at 8 am on January 27. Mangalore Bishop, Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, will celebrate festival mass in Konkani at 10.30 am on that day.

Udupi Bishop, Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, will celebrate festival mass in Konkani at 10 am on January 28, Fr George D'Souza, director of the centre, has informed.