Mangalore Diocese News

CT News

Kinnigoli, Oct 18, 2017 : Thousands thronged the Ruby Jubilee celebrations and inaugural of the renovated church building of Immaculate Conception Church here, on Sunday, October 15. Two bishops, Bishop of Mangalore Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza and Bishop of Bellary Dr Henry D'Souza, graced the occasion and were welcomed with great pomp.

Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza inaugurated the renovated Immaculate Conception Church, a significant portion of which has accentuated wood details, giving it an antique look, in a modern world. A Eucharistic celebration followed where Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza was the principal celebrant.

A formal programme was held where assistant parish priests Fr George Crasta, Fr Sunil Praveen Pinto, Fr Ashok Rayan Crasta, were felicitated. Donors and the contractor who helped in the renovation were also honoured on occasion.

Addressing the gathering, bishop of Mangalore, Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza said, "Churches are a symbol of devotion and faith. They are a link between God and humans. It is not enough to look at the exterior beauty of the church alone but look within ourselves and submit to the almighty, for peace and happiness in our familial and social life."

Bishop of Bellary, Dr Henry D'Souza said, "We ought to pray to God every day for the poor, downtrodden and helpless. There should be an increasing number of people serving the nation and society from our community. Good education is vital in that regard."

MLA Abhay Chandra Jain released the souvenir and wished the parish well.

Parish priest Fr Vincent Monteiro welcomed the gathering. Parish council vice president Shaila Sequeira proposed the vote of thanks. Teachers Anita D'Souza and William D'Souza compered the programme.

Ruling party chief whip, legislative council, Ivan D'Souza; panchayat president Philomena Sequiera; panchayat president, Mannabettu, Sarojini Gujaran, convent superior Sr Jyotsna, parish council secretary Vincent Mathias were present.

The celebrations came to a close with a bounteous meal that was prepared a day earlier by the parishioners, served to the thousands gathered.