Pics: Richard D’Souza

Media Release

Udupi, May 19: Msgr Francis Xavier Lewis officially assumed responsibility as the fourth rector and 51st vicar of the historic Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, one of Coastal Karnataka’s oldest and sacred churches and the cathedral of the Udupi diocese, during ceremony held on Sunday.

The formal installation ceremony was led by Fr Steevan D’Souza, chancellor of the Udupi diocese, on behalf of the bishop of the diocese.

Msgr Francis Xavier Lewis, accompanied by priests and parishioners from Perpetual Succour Church, Kalathur, Shirva deanery, received a warm welcome at the cathedral portico. He was welcomed by the outgoing rector Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, assistant parish priest Fr Rikson Monteiro, Milagres PU College principal Fr Melwyn Mendonca, parish pastoral council vice president Melwyn Sequeira, Eugene Rebello, coordinator of parish pastoral commissions Preema Lewis, nuns and parishioners with flower garlands and bouquets.

A solemn procession comprising altar servers, priests, nuns, parishioners of Milagres Cathedral and Kalathur Church escorted the new Rector into the cathedral.

Following prayers, scripture readings and reflections, the formal handing over and taking over of the religious and administrative responsibilities of the cathedral was conducted. Members of the parish pastoral council pledged their support to the new Rector by lighting candles from the ceremonial lamp.

The ceremony was witnessed by several priests including Fr Charles Menezes, vicar of Shirva church and dean of Shirva deanery, along with priests from Kallianpur deanery and guest priests from Shirva.

A brief introductory programme followed the installation ceremony. Welcoming the gathering, Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves highlighted the rich 348-year history of Milagres Cathedral and described Msgr Francis Xavier Lewis as an experienced priest who had rendered dedicated service in various diocesan institutions and parishes.

Fr Steevan D’Souza congratulated the new rector and expressed hope that the parish would continue to grow spiritually and developmentally under his leadership. He said that the patroness, Our Lady of Milagres, would bless the parish and called upon parishioners to work together in unity for the growth of the cathedral.

In his address, Msgr Francis Xavier Lewis expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded to him and sought the cooperation and support of parishioners in carrying out his responsibilities at the cathedral.

Priests, nuns, parish pastoral council members, parishioners, well-wishers of the incoming rector and faithful from Kalathur parish were present on the occasion.

Fr Rikson Monteiro compered the programme and delivered the vote of thanks.