Mangaluru: On Sunday, November 10, the ಸೌಹಾರ್ದ ವಾಹನ ಜಾಥಾ (Harmony Vehicle Rally) gathered hundreds of devotees in a display of faith and unity, traveling from Pachanady Circle to the revered St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel. The rally began at 4 p.m. with a prayer led by Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr William D’Souza, imbuing the event with a spirit of devotion.
Parish Priest Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza welcomed the assembled guests, including Police Inspector Shri Shivkumar K. R. from Vamanjoor Police Station and V. Rev. Fr James D’Souza, Vicar Forane of the City Deanery and Parish Priest of Vamanjoor, both of whom were honored with floral bouquets. V. Rev. Fr James D’Souza spoke to the congregation, drawing parallels between Jesus’ journey to Mount Calvary and the event’s unifying purpose, blessing the parish clergy and extending good wishes for future celebrations.
In his address, Police Inspector Shivkumar K. R. praised the rally’s harmony and gave his heartfelt blessings, particularly as the church prepares for its centenary celebrations. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, V. Rev. Fr James D’Souza, Shri D.K. Shivkumar, Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, and Br Balaswamy, alongside Parish Council members and community leaders.
One of the highlights was the symbolic release of balloons by the dignitaries, representing peace and harmony. The procession included a historic 100-year-old Holy Cross and a statue of Christ the Redeemer, both carried in reverence to the newly renovated shrine. The Holy Cross and statue were then placed inside St Lawrence Church, where Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza led the congregation in a heartfelt prayer.
The rally concluded with a Thanksgiving hymn, followed by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza’s final blessings. Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, served as the event’s emcee, with a vote of thanks extended to key contributors like Vice President Mr John D’Silva, Mr Gregory Pinto, Mr Jason Fernandes, and the Cultural Committee. The event drew a large number of parishioners, marking a memorable moment in the lead-up to the church’s centenary, with refreshments served to all attendees.
This rally, rooted in faith and community, stood as a testament to unity, drawing a devoted crowd and enriching the church’s history with a significant milestone.
