Report & Photos: Canara Communication Centre, Mangalore

Mangaluru, Feb 1: The St Anthony Shrine at Milagres Church in Mangaluru observed the third day of the novena preceding the annual relic feast of St Anthony of Padua on February 1.

Fr Anil Ivan Fernandes, director of Canara Communication Centre, presided over the Eucharistic Mass, joined by Fr J B Crasta, director of St Anthony Charitable Institutions in Jeppu, and Fr Nelson Peris, assistant director of the ashram.

Fr Anil's sermon centred on "My Soul Glorifies the Lord-The Magnificat" Luke 1:46-55. He urged attendees to embrace gratitude and praise, not just during successes but also in moments of revealed challenges, emphasizing God's omnipresence and the possibility of overcoming obstacles through faith. Fr Anil said, “Thank You is the mother of Happiness. Gratefulness brings healing.”

Post-Mass, Fr Nelson led the novena, specifically remembering those serving humanity and those self-employed. The Konkani Choir from Infant Mary’s Church Bajjodi added a melodious dimension to the expressions of gratitude.

Active participation marked the third day of the ongoing novena, set to continue until February 7, 2024. The communal spirit was further heightened as attendees were treated to the sweet dish, Payasam.

Looking ahead, the highlight of the festivities is the main celebrant, Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, leading the main festive Holy Mass on February 8, 2024, at 6 pm at Milagres Church Grounds. The feast's theme, "Let those who received, Proclaim," sets the tone for a day of spiritual significance and community celebration.

On the feast day, scheduled for February 8, Konkani masses are slated for 6 and 9:30 am at St Anthony Shram Jeppu, with a Malayalam mass at 4:30 pm at Milagres Church. The anticipation builds for a day filled with spiritual significance and community jubilation.