Media Release
Chikkamagaluru, May 19: The Infant Jesus Church at Hemmakki in Kalasa taluk is all set to celebrate its Pearl Jubilee along with the inauguration and blessing of its newly renovated church on Thursday, May 21 at 9:30 am, in a grand spiritual gathering.
The celebration will be held under the joint parish of St Joseph’s Church, Hirebile, and its substation, Infant Jesus Church, Hemmakki, marking 30 years of the church’s establishment.
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The solemn Eucharistic celebration and dedication ceremony will be presided over by bishop of Chikkamagaluru Dr Thomasappa Anthony Swamy.
On the occasion, the parish community will express gratitude for three decades of faith, blessings, and spiritual guidance, marking the Pearl Jubilee as a milestone in the history of the church.
A journey of faith and growth
The Infant Jesus Church, Hemmakki, has a history dating back to 1983, when efforts began under the leadership of then parish priest Fr George D’Souza to secure land and establish a place of worship for local Catholic families.
Despite challenges such as lack of transport and infrastructure in the early years, the community gradually developed the church infrastructure, with construction completed in 1995. The church was later inaugurated and blessed, becoming a spiritual centre for the local faithful.
Over the years, several priests have served the parish, contributing to its spiritual and community development.
Renovation after three decades
After nearly 30 years, the church building underwent major renovation due to structural wear caused by heavy rains and ageing. Repairs included roof reconstruction, wall strengthening, and restoration of wooden structures affected by pests.
The renovation was carried out under the leadership of the present parish priest Fr David Prakash, with support from parishioners and donors from various regions including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Mangaluru and abroad.
The project received Rs 50 lac assistance from the Christian Development Corporation, while the remaining funds were raised through community contributions.
The renovation work was completed within seven months through collective effort and community participation.
Modern facilities with traditional design
The renovated church features a Gothic-style altar, artistic sanctuary designs depicting the life of Christ, and statues of various saints including Saint Anthony, Divine Mercy, Our Lady of Velankanni, Saint Lawrence, and Saint Sebastian.
The structure, designed by architect John Peter Mascarenhas, includes improved facilities such as a dining hall, stage, washrooms, sacristy, priest’s room, and a grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes.
A 22-metre ramp has also been constructed for the convenience of elderly and differently-abled devotees.
The church, which now accommodates around 100 people, stands as a renewed symbol of faith for the local Catholic community, which consists of about 70 members across 17 families.
Jubilee celebrations
The Pearl Jubilee celebration is expected to witness participation from more than 50 priests, 25 religious sisters, and over 1,000 faithful from various regions.
A public felicitation programme will be held after the holy Mass to honour donors, workers, and supporters of the renovation project, followed by a community fellowship meal.
The parish community has expressed hope that the renovated church will continue to serve as a centre of prayer, unity, and service for generations to come.