Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur (MS)

Kundapur, Jun 13: The annual feast of St Antony's Holy Shrine at Kerekatte near Hosangadi was held in a grand manner on Thursday, June 13. The Eucharistic celebration was offered by bishop of Udupi diocese Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo.

In his homily, Fr Sunil D'Silva said, "The life led by St Antony is a model to everyone. We should have concern towards the poor, destitute and people from the lower strata of the society. All can get the love and blessings of the almighty by sacrifice, love and selfless service. Devotion towards the almighty has to increase and only then one can find satisfaction in life." Fr Sunil also stressed on the importance of God's word and how to implement the same in life, which helps in building a noble family in the society.

Fr Stany Lobo, chancellor of Udupi diocese, Fr Stany Tauro, dean of Kundapur zone, Fr Valerian Mendonca, dean of Udupi zone, Fr Xavier Pinto, spiritual director of Kerekatte shrine and priest of Mangaluru and Udupi diocese were the co-celebrants of the Eucharist.

The sponsors who donated for the annual feast were celebrated on the occasion and were given blessed candles (Muddomm). Fr Xavier Pinto, spiritual director of Kerekatte Shrine rendered thanks to those who helped in making the annual feast a grand one.

Devotees thronged the shrine right from the morning of Thursday, June 13 and offered candles and flowers to St Antony. Lunch was offered to the devotees.

A special Mass was held for sick people and oil blessing was also held.

Kerekatte shrine is developing very fast. Every year in February, the memorial feast is celebrated and in June the annual feast is held. Many devotees from nearby as well as far off places visit this shrine.