The renovated St Anne’s Chapel at Thottam, Malpe was solemnly reopened with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, drawing a large gathering of clergy, dignitaries and faithful.
Presiding over the inaugural rites and Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Lobo reflected on the sacredness of places of worship and the duty of believers to preserve their sanctity. He reminded the congregation that churches are not merely structures of stone, but living spaces of prayer that nurture faith and unity.
Faith beyond structures
Highlighting India’s rich spiritual heritage, the bishop said places of worship have always served as centres of devotion and service. However, he cautioned against limiting faith to external rituals.
“External celebrations without inner devotion lose their meaning,” he said, urging the faithful to cultivate sincerity in prayer and compassion towards others. He expressed hope that the renovated chapel would become a vibrant centre of spiritual renewal for the people of Thottam and Malpe.
The formal rites of inauguration and blessing were conducted by Fr. Wilson D’Souza. After the Eucharistic celebration, the congregation gathered for the Rosary and later participated in a candlelight procession from the chapel to the main parish church, symbolising unity and shared devotion.
Dignitaries and well-wishers present
A felicitation programme held at the parish open stage honoured donors and contributors to the renovation project. Among the dignitaries present were Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, former MLA J.R. Lobo, Gerald Isaac, and other prominent personalities from civic, social and Church circles.
Also present were Milagres Cathedral Rector Fr. Ferdinand Gonsalves, Diocesan Chancellor Fr. Stephen D’Souza, Convent Superior Sr. Sushma, major donor Oswald Vaz, Peter Andrew D’Souza, Shanthi Fernandes, Clifford Leena Vaz representing the Vaz family, and several parish leaders.
The event marked a moment of gratitude and renewed faith for the community, as St Anne’s Chapel begins a new chapter in its spiritual journey.