On the solemn feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha of Mangalore blessed the newly renovated Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel at the Bishop’s House, Kodialbail, on May 31. The celebration was marked by deep devotion and festive joy, attended by clergy, religious, and lay faithful.
The chapel, first consecrated in 1857, has undergone several upgrades: a facade renovation in 1963, floor repairs a decade ago, and now a comprehensive restoration. The latest work included an extended front facade, roof repairs, fresh plastering and paint, improved electrification, enhanced lighting, and a new sound system — all restoring its architectural beauty while honoring its historic significance.
Bishop Emeritus Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Msgr Maxim L. Noronha, Vicar General, Chancellor Dr Victor George D’Souza, Chaplain Fr Jagadish Pinto, and many other priests concelebrated the Mass. Religious sisters and a large congregation joined in this memorable occasion.
A felicitation program followed, where Bishop Saldanha thanked major donors including Abu Dhabi-based philanthropist Michael D’Souza and the Sodality of the Immaculate Conception for their generous support.
The bishop expressed special gratitude to Fr Rupesh Madtha, editor of Raknno Weekly, who led the renovation efforts with Fr Noronha and Fr Pinto. He called the chapel “a spiritual womb of grace” and noted the touching Latin inscription on the new facade, “Cor Meum Moerens” (“My heart weeps”), symbolizing Mary’s sorrow and maternal compassion.
This renewed chapel now stands as a peaceful spiritual haven in Mangalore, inviting all to seek comfort and grace through Mary, Our Lady of Sorrows.
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