Mangaluru: Dual celebration at St Lawrence Church, Bondel

By Meena Serrao Barboza
Bellevision Media Network

Mangaluru, 03 May 2024: St Lawrence Church witnessed the celebration of sacrament of Confirmation and parish foundation day held on May 1. Bishop emeritus Dr Aloysius Paul D’ Souza administered the sacrament of Confirmation to 86 children of St Lawrence Church Bondel.

 

Bishop emeritus Dr Aloysius Paul D’ Souza along with Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza-parish priest, Dr Ronald Serrao-rector Jeppu seminary, Fr Peter Gonsalves, Fr Lancy D’Souza, Fr Arul Betharaam, and Fr Ravikumar MSIJ concelebrated the Holy Mass of Confirmation.

 

In his homily, Dr Ronald Serrao highlighted the significance of the Sacrament of Confirmation. He emphasised that the Holy Spirit gives them the increased ability to practice the faith of Christian life. He gave a call to all children to be the messengers of Jesus Christ and bear witness to Christ in every situation of their life. 86 children received the sacrament of confirmation on this day.

 

 

After the final blessing, a Felicitation programme was conducted by cultural committee, honouring the dedication and service of the vice president, Secretary, ward gurkars, both past and present for their noble service and accomplishments. Achievers of parish members Dr Preethi Keerthi D’Souza, Stany Alvares, Bianca Saldanha, Aaren Fernandes, and Anitha Pinto in various fields were honoured. The cultural committee vice president Dr Preethi Keerthi D’Souza compered the programme.

 

Bishop emeritus Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza in his speech said, “As we commemorate the establishment of our parish, we are reminded of the countless blessings that God has bestowed upon us throughout the years. Our parish is not merely a physical building, but a spiritual home where we gather as one family to worship, pray, and support one another in our faith journey.”

 

The parishioners had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable talents of the parish’s 100 singers. Together, they graced with their voices as they performed the centenary song, commemorating a century of faith and unity within the community. Following this, they beautifully rendered the Laudate Dominum Hymn.

 

Expressing gratitude the bishop for officiating the Sacrament and conferring children, Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza greeted the people present. A special thanks to Dr Ronald Serrao for sharing God’s word with along with everyone else who helped get the kids ready for confirmation, he also praised Fr Peter Gonsalves, Fr Lancy D’Souza, Sr Celestine and Jenny and each member of the associations who contributed to making this a day to remember. He congratulated all the children for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation.

 

A cultural programme was held at St Lawrence English-medium school grounds by the cultural committee following the felicitation programme. Manoj Lewis and Jeevan compered the programme. Parishioners presented amazing performances to highlight their talents. The parishioners and guests were later treated to a sumptuous meal prepared by the parishioners and the programme ended with housie-housie with traditional baila dancing.