Pics by: Nitin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP/JD)
Udupi, Aug 15: The annual feast of Our Lady of Vailankanni Shrine at Stella Maris Church, Kalmady, was celebrated with grandeur and deep devotion on Friday, August 15.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi, was the main celebrant at the solemn festal Eucharistic celebration.
In his homily, Bishop Gerald reflected on the maternal love and guidance of Mother Mary. “Today, the Church celebrates the Assumption of Mother Mary – a gift to Mary from God. Mother Mary is the Queen of Faith, and we celebrate this feast with that motto. In a world filled with fear, tension, and difficulties, Mother Mary is the light that leads us. Without knowing anything, she placed her full trust in the Almighty and surrendered to His will. Even when she witnessed sorrowful events, she did not run away. Her faith remained strong. She lost her only son, yet she believed in the Almighty.
“We too carry many crosses. The feast of the Assumption gives us new hope – that our life does not end in the grave but leads to the heavenly abode. Mother Mary assures us that God is always with us. We are not orphans; heaven is our permanent home. We should respect our bodies and keep our faith in Jesus, even when our prayers are not answered. Let us surrender to God’s will, and like Mary, trust in Him completely,” he said.
The bishop underlined two key lessons from Mary’s life – her unwavering trust in God, urging the faithful to rely on Him in both joy and trial; and her readiness to help the needy, inspiring all to extend a helping hand to those in need. He encouraged the congregation to pray to Mary for their needs and to strive to do good to all.
Fr Baptist Menezes, Rector of Our Lady of Vailankanni Shrine, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the organisation and arrangements of the feast.
On the occasion, donors and sponsors were honoured by the bishop with blessed candles as a token of appreciation.
Present were Ida D’Souza, vice-president; Stanly Menezes, secretary; Jeneview Lobo, convener of the 20 commissions; Fr Steevan D’Souza, chancellor of the diocese of Udupi; Fr Charles Menezes, parish priest of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi; Fr Alban D’Souza, rector of St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur; and other priests from the diocese.
Thousands of devotees and parishioners took part in the celebrations, seeking the blessings of Our Lady of Vailankanni. The shrine remained vibrant throughout the day as devotees engaged in acts of devotion, including offering prayers, lighting candles, and attending Eucharistic Masses.
A fellowship meal was served to all present.
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