Mangaluru: St Aloysius Institutions celebrated the Feast of St Aloysius Gonzaga, their patron saint, with devotion and enthusiasm at Loyola Auditorium on June 20. Centred on the theme “Creating Hope in a Changing World,” the celebration brought together students, faculty, staff, administrators, and Jesuit fathers in a meaningful expression of faith, service, and community.
Solemn Eucharistic Celebration Marks the Occasion
The festivities began with a solemn procession led by the college band, escorting the priests to the altar and creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration. A video presentation on the life and legacy of St Aloysius Gonzaga provided participants with deeper insight into the saint’s commitment to God and humanity.
The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Rev. Fr Francis Xavier Lewis, Vicar General of the Diocese of Udupi. In his homily, he reflected on the importance of faith and love in Christian life, reminding the congregation that love for God must be expressed through service to others.
Addressing the students, Fr Francis emphasised that true success extends beyond academic achievements and professional accomplishments.
“The true measure of success lies not in what we possess, but in the kind of persons we become,” he said, encouraging students to cultivate integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of faith.
Drawing inspiration from the life of St Aloysius Gonzaga, he highlighted how the young saint chose a life centred on God and service despite being born into privilege and destined for worldly honour.
Values of Humility and Service Highlighted
Concluding his message, Fr Francis urged students to serve others with joy, generosity, and humility, stressing that greatness is determined by values and choices rather than status or recognition.
The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by Rev. Fr Brian Pereira, Rector of St Aloysius Institutions; Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, Principal of St Aloysius PU College; Rev. Fr Prashanth Madtha SJ; Rev. Fr Louis D’Souza; along with Jesuit fathers, principals, directors, and heads of various Aloysius institutions.
The offertory procession, led by students, symbolised gratitude and commitment to service. The offerings collected during the Mass will be donated to Jeevandaan Ashram and St Joseph Prashanth Nivas as a gesture of solidarity with those in need.
Felicitation of Priests and Community Leaders
Following the Eucharistic celebration, Rev. Fr Francis Xavier Lewis, Rev. Fr Prashanth Madtha SJ, and Rev. Fr Louis D’Souza were felicitated in recognition of their dedicated service and valuable contributions. The felicitation ceremony was led by Rev. Fr Brian Pereira and conducted by Rev. Fr Merwyn Fernandes.
The programme was compered by Ms Mureal Andrade, while Ms Fiona Moras proposed the vote of thanks.
Special Prayer Service for Students and Faculty
A special prayer service was also organised for students and faculty members. Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ described St Aloysius Gonzaga as a timeless inspiration for young people.
He reminded students that although the saint was born into privilege and had a promising future, he chose a life dedicated to God and humanity. Emphasising the Jesuit values of compassion, generosity, and service, Fr Clifford encouraged students to become instruments of hope in society.
Drawing from the teachings of St Ignatius of Loyola, he stated that life finds its deepest meaning not in what one possesses but in what one gives.
Competitions Showcase Student Creativity
As part of the feast celebrations, the Campus Ministry of St Aloysius PU College organised a variety of competitions that witnessed enthusiastic student participation.
Events included the 60-Second Viral Challenge, Photography Competition, Painting Competition, Treasure Hunt, Mind Map Challenge, and Mystery Box Challenge, providing students with opportunities to showcase their creativity, teamwork, and talents.
Competition posters, photographs, and a specially curated Gratitude Wall were displayed during the celebrations and received widespread appreciation from participants.
The Feast of St Aloysius Gonzaga served not only as a celebration of the patron saint but also as an occasion for reflection, renewal, and inspiration. The event strengthened the spirit of unity across the Aloysius institutions and encouraged students and staff alike to embrace the values of humility, service, and hope exemplified by St Aloysius Gonzaga.
