Mulki: Divine Call Retreat Centre at Karnad, Mulki, celebrated the 12th anniversary of its existence on Saturday, October 1. It was back in 2004, on this very date, that the Centre came into existence.
The day was marked by the usual Saturday Retreat, which was well attended by a big number of devotees who come here to the Centre regularly, especially for the Saturday retreat.
The celebrations included a day of prayer from 9am to 3pm with Solemn Festive Mass which was celebrated by Rev. Fr.Valerian Pius Fernandes SVD, the Director of Divine Call Centre and concelebrated by other priests of the Centre and the SVD congregation.
Fr Valerian Fernandes SVD delved deep into the understanding of the theme of the Sunday liturgical readings. In his homily, he spoke on the faith of our ancestors, which he said was seen not in mere words but in their actions. He further said that Faith is not something that is visible in words and that Faith is an ‘active’ participation and not a passive observation and demonstrated this view with apt stories and life experiences of the people. He continued his homily by calling on the faithful to reflect on the Sunday’s Gospel theme.
Many from the nearby parishes and from far and wide had gathered for the celebration. After the Eucharistic celebration, the Director of the Centre expressed his gratitude to the people and thanked all the Sponsors, Donors, Benefactors, Well Wishers, friends for their generosity and prayers for the growth of the Centre, where thousands of people continue to experience the healing touch. Festive lunch was served to all those who attended the Centre’s Anniversary celebration.
Fr. Mervin Noronha SVD, Rector of Kirem Minor Seminary, Fr. Evan Gomes SVD, Fr. Francline Machado SVD, Fr Anil Kiran Fernandes SVD were present on the occasion.
The day’s programme continued by a well-attended Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with Intercessory Prayers and Healing Service. Many came forward with their testimonies.
Night Vigil
The Night Vigil began at 6pm with Praise & Worship, Word of God, Special prayers, Adoration, Divine Mercy Prayer, Healing Service, Deliverance, Anointing of Holy Spirit, and concluded with Holy Eucharistic Celebration. An enthusiastic crowd participated patiently and prayerfully, in the entire night vigil. It was a joy to see so many of them, keeping aside all their work at the weekend and participate in such a prayer ceremony. It was a wonderful experience according to many who had participated.
