Pics by: Kevin Rodrigues
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Jun 10: The newly built structure of St Anthony’s Shrine at Pakala, Belman was inaugurated and blessed on Tuesday, June 10, in a grand ceremony marked by deep spiritual significance.
The inauguration was carried out by Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, bishop emeritus of Mangaluru diocese. The chapel was then blessed and the Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi. The blessing of the shrine was conducted by Dr Louis Mascarenhas, bishop of Allahabad. Dr Francis Serrao, bishop of Shimoga, delivered the homily, adding spiritual depth to the celebration.
In his homily, Dr Francis Serrao emphasised the role of the Church in building a community. He said, “The Temple of Jerusalem was important to the Jews, as they believed the Almighty dwelt there. But Jesus clarified that true worship is not limited to man-made structures—it is dependent on the heart of the worshipper. If our life becomes a rosary, there is no need for another. Today, as our lives lack such devotion, we turn to external aids. More than buildings, what we need is inner faith, reverence to God, and a life that honours the poor. External celebrations without inner devotion are meaningless. This temple will serve as a divine space, a shrine to pray, and an altar to connect with the Almighty. While churches made of stone may perish, the living temple within us endures.”
The altar and walls of the new church were also blessed on the occasion.
A formal felicitation programme followed the Eucharistic celebration. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo presided over the programme. Guests included Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Dr Louis Mascarenhas, Dr Francis Serrao, Ivan D’Souza, MLC Karnataka; Fr Dr Leslie D’Souza, vicar forane, Shirva deanery; and Prasad Shetty, vice president, Kedinje gram panchayat. Fr Arnold Mathias, former assistant parish priest; Fr Oswald Vaz, assistant parish priest; Sr Marina D’Souza, superior, Don Bosco Convent; Gregory Menezes, vice president, parish pastoral council; Janet D’Mello, secretary; and Dominic Andrade, convener of commissions were present.
In his introductory address, Fr Fred Mascarenhas, parish priest of Belman Church, expressed gratitude, saying, “This is a miracle by the saint and God. I thank the Almighty for giving us the strength to complete this project. My former parishioners, donors through my brother Fr Clement Mascarenhas, and Belman parishioners have all contributed significantly. The project, which cost around Rs 6.5 crore, saw Fr Clement raise Rs 1.5 crore through his sources. I also acknowledge the selfless sacrifices made by Belman parishioners.”
All donors, Fr Fred Mascarenhas, Fr Arnold Mathias, and the contractors and suppliers involved in the project were felicitated. A special honour was also conferred upon Fr Fred Mascarenhas by the Udupi diocese.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza said, “Thousands have been visiting this shrine for years. St Anthony, a doctor of the Church, began his mission humbly as a cook and loved the downtrodden. It is not enough to receive blessings—we must express gratitude to the Almighty. Let this shrine continue to be a source of blessings for all.”
Dr Francis Serrao remarked, “I came here expecting to see a miraculous saint, and I witnessed another—Fr Fred Mascarenhas. His tireless work here is nothing short of a miracle. I’ve been invited by the bishop of Udupi to preach at five newly constructed churches.”
Dr Louis Mascarenhas shared a nostalgic note: “I studied in a nearby school and often visited this place. An elderly lady would give us water and bless us with holy oil. She introduced us to St Anthony, who has performed many miracles in my life. This church is not built just with cement—it is built with devotion. I congratulate Fr Fred, the parishioners, and all donors.”
MLC Ivan D’Souza said, “I am familiar with Manjarpalke, Belman, and this shrine. I have visited this chapel since my childhood and am amazed by its transformation. It holds the potential to become a prominent shrine. I am the only Catholic in the Vidhana Parishad, and K J George represents us in the Vidhana Sabha. Our inputs are sought on community matters. The Christian community is known for its service and education. Even the PM and President acknowledge this, though not always publicly. I assure my full support to the community during my tenure.”
In his presidential address, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo said, “This church can be considered the 14th miracle of St Anthony. It symbolises the sacrifice of many. People of all faiths will come here to pray. Initially planned as a small chapel, Fr Fred envisioned a larger church due to the growing devotion. I thank him, the parishioners, and all donors. This may soon be declared a shrine. As it grows, there may be a need for a resident priest. Fr Fred has worked not just as a priest but like a labourer—I have witnessed it.”
Fr Fred Mascarenhas welcomed the gathering, while Janet D’Mello proposed the vote of thanks. Fr Denis D’Sa, PRO of the Udupi diocese, compered the event, and Fr Dr Leslie D’Souza led the food prayer.
Congress leader Uday Kumar Shetty Muniyal and MCC Bank chairman Anil Lobo were also present.
Thousands of devotees, both Catholic and non-Catholic, participated in the celebration.
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