Mangaluru: Ahead of the annual feast of Infant Jesus on Jan 14 & 15 at Bikarnakatte, ‘Hore Kanike’ (offertory procession) witnessing scores of devotees was held on Jan 4, 2023.
After having participated in a prayer service held by Rev. Fr Lancy Lewis at the Kaikamba-Bikarnakatte Grounds, Rev. Fr Charles Serrao flagged off the procession from Kaikamba to the Infant Jesus Shrine. Many faithful participated in the colourful offertory procession, which was made up of offertory materials provided by different community contributors to be used for the noon meals that will be served on all the novena days.
Rev Fr Rovel D Souza welcomed the gathering. Rev Fr James D’Souza, Vicar Forane, led the prayer service ahead of flag hoisting. N Shashikumar IPS, Police Commissioner of Mangalore, hoisted the flag and gave an official nod to the novenas and feast of Infant Jesus. Addressing the gathering the commissioner said, “The Carmel hill of Mangalore where Infant Jesus Shrine exists has become a source of peace and serenity. The Christian community at large maintains an ecosystem of peace and brotherhood.” He wished all gathered a pleasant year ahead with the blessings of Infant Jesus.
A few dignitaries and well-wishers were felicitated and acknowledged for their service. Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Ivan D Souza (Former MLC), Naveen D Souza (MCC Opposition Leader), Smt Kavya Nataraj Alva (Shivabagh Corporator), Kishore Kottari, (Padavu central Corporator), Bhaskar K, (Padavu east corporator), Keshava, (Maroli corporator), A. C. Vinayaraj, (Ashokanagara corporator), Lancelot Pinto, (Bejai corporator) Ramesh Kandettu (Nominated corporator), Rev. Fr Charles Serrao (Superior, St. Joseph’s Monastery) and Rev Fr Rovel D Souza (Shrine Director).
Fr Rovel thanked the gathering assuring prayers for all devotees. Fr Stephen Pereira and Fr Ryan Pinto arranged and compered the whole programme.
“They returned by another route” is the main theme of the year for reflection, and it encourages people to cling to the biblical way rather than the ways of the world. The Novena Masses start on Jan 5 and last for nine days. There will be a total of nine masses held each day, attended by believers. The annual feast will be held on Jan 14 and 15, 2023.
Report: Carmel Kiran Media
Pics: Stany Bantwal
