Mangaluru: Situated just off the Mangalore-Bajpe International Airport route, the serene St. Lawrence Church in Bondel, with its rich 100-year legacy, is set to commemorate a momentous Triple Celebration. This special occasion marks the centenary closing of the church, the inauguration of its newly renovated structure, and the official designation of the St. Lawrence Shrine within the Mangalore Diocese.
Historic Background and Evolution
The origins of St. Lawrence Church trace back to a small Christian community that had to travel long distances to Milagres and Rosario churches for religious services. In 1923, Bishop Paul Perini declared Bondel an official parish under St. Lawrence, appointing Rev. Fr Frank Pereira as its first parish priest. Since then, the church has grown immensely, currently supporting over 1,200 families across 36 wards, thanks to the ongoing dedication of head priests, assistant priests, and parishioners.
Under the present leadership of Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Rev. Fr William D’Souza, and school principal Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, St. Lawrence Church continues its journey of spiritual and community development.
Centenary Celebrations and Community Contributions
To commemorate its centenary, the church has built three homes for the needy and renovated the church building. It has also established educational institutions, including St. Lawrence Primary School, St. Lawrence English Medium Nursery, Primary, and High School, and St. Lawrence Kannada Medium School. The church’s magazine, Bondelchem Bonder, and its website offer a global platform for parish updates, connecting devotees and well-wishers worldwide.
The Sacred Shrine and Miraculous Relics
The St. Lawrence Shrine, established in 2012 under Rev. Fr Andrew D’Souza, is a beacon for thousands who attend the annual feast on August 10. The shrine also houses a revered relic of the Holy Cross, adding to the church’s spiritual significance.
Upcoming Inauguration and Blessing Ceremony
The closing centennial ceremony, inauguration of the renovated church, and official dedication of the St. Lawrence Shrine will be held on November 18, 2024. The event will begin with a Holy Eucharistic Mass at 3:00 PM, led by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, along with Bishop Emeritus Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, and Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese. A stage program at 5:30 PM will follow, attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and parishioners.
All are warmly invited to attend and witness this historic celebration at St. Lawrence Church, Bondel.
Press Meet Attendees:
- Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest
- Rev. Fr William D’Souza, Assistant Parish Priest
- Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal, St. Lawrence Schools
- Mr. John D’Silva, Vice President
- Mr. Prakash Pinto, Coordinator, Shrine Committee
- Mrs. Mary Miranda, Editor, Centenary Memorial Souvenir
- Mrs. Preeti D’Souza, Coordinator, Centenary Memorial Programme
