Mayor Kavitha inaugurates 9-day Novena at St. Lawrence Church, Bondel

Mangaluru: A nine-day Novena in preparation for the annual feast of St. Lawrence Church, Bondel was started from August 1.

Mangaluru Mayor Kavitha Sanil declared the Novena open by unfurling St. Lawrence flag at the church premises. Addressing the gathering, Sanil said that she was proud to be at the church where several miracles had taken place.

The Novena prayers were inaugurated by Fr. Walter D’Mello, Vicar Judiciary of Mangaluru diocese in the presence of religious leaders and guests. On the first day of the Novena, Fr. Walter lead the Eucharistic celebration.

Deputy Mayor Rajaneesh, former mayor Harinath, Mahabala Marla, corporators Deepak Poojary, Madhukrishna, parish priest Fr. Andrew D’Souza, assistant priest Fr. Vinod Lobo, resident priest Fr. Leo Veigas, assistant parish priest of Vamanjoor Fr. Jaison Monis and hundreds of devotees were present to witness the first day of Novena.

Earlier on Monday, Hore Kanike (offertory procession) was held from Mount Carmel Hall, Mary Hill. The procession carrying offerings was flagged off by ACP Valentine D’Souza. Parish priest Fr. Andrew D’Souza received the offerings at the church premises.

Parish Council Vice President Hembert Pinto, Rachana President Stany Alvares, Church Committee Convenor Rudy Pinto and Secretary Francis Veigas were present.