Novena Videos

Four Discalced Carmelites Ordained Priests at Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte
Four Discalced Carmelite deacons were ordained to the priesthood on May 14 at the Infant Jesus Shrine by Peter Paul Saldanha. The newly ordained priests are Rev. Fr. Alwyn D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Loy Jackson Crasta, Rev. Fr. Elston Monteiro, and Rev. Fr. Hilary Rodrigues. In his homily, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha reminded the newly ordained priests that priesthood is a call to imitate Jesus Christ, the Lamb who sacrificed Himself for the salvation of humanity. He emphasized that a priest is called not only to be a minister but also “priest and victim,” offering his life sacrificially in service of God’s people. Citing the example of Padre Pio, the Bishop stressed that a priest must remain close to the people entrusted to him. Quoting the saint, he said: “For you I am a priest; with you I am a brother.” He further noted that the priest stands as a victim at the altar in self-offering and as a compassionate judge in the confessional, ministering with mercy, humility, and zeal for souls. Addressing the newly ordained Carmelite priests, the Bishop invited them to imbibe the spirit of Prophet Elijah, the inspiration of the Carmelite Order, who zealously proclaimed: “I am filled with zeal for the glory of God.” The Bishop also appreciated the Discalced Carmelites for their dedicated service to the Diocese and the wider Church, particularly commending their innovative and creative approaches in evangelization and their pioneering use of modern means to reach people spiritually. Rev. Fr. Alwyn D’Souza hails from St Thomas Church and is the son of Anthony D’Souza and Alice D’Souza. He has an elder brother. Rev. Fr. Elston Monteiro belongs to Holy Cross Church and is the son of Elias and Lilly Monteiro. He is the youngest among three sons. Rev. Fr. Loy Jackson Crasta, belonging to Infant Mary Church, is the first priest from the parish. He is the youngest son of Marcel and Lucy Crasta. Rev. Fr. Hilary Rodrigues hails from Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church in the Diocese of Karwar. He is the son of the late Bodthol Rodrigues and Rosy Rodrigues and the youngest among two sons. The solemn ordination ceremony was attended by around 130 priests, religious sisters, family members, and faithful from various places.

Fr. John Francis Sequeira, OCD, Elected Provincial Superior of Karnataka–Goa Province
Mysuru, April 17, 2026: Rev. Fr. Dr. John Francis Sequeira, OCD, has been elected as the Provincial Superior of the Discalced Carmelites of the Karnataka–Goa Province during the XVI Provincial Chapter held at Dhyana Sadhana, Bogadi, Mysuru, on Friday, April 17, 2026. He succeeds Rev. Fr. Silvestre D'Souza, OCD, who has served as Provincial Superior for the past three years. Fr. John Francis Sequeira hails from Agrar Parish in the Diocese of Mangalore. A distinguished academic and spiritual guide, he holds a Master’s degree in Philosophy from Karnataka University, Dharwad, and a second Master’s degree in Philosophy from the University of Vienna, Austria, where he also pursued studies in German Linguistics. He earned his Doctorate in Philosophy from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum), Rome, specializing in Hermeneutics - the interpretation of classical texts. A respected scholar, Fr. John serves as a visiting professor in several undergraduate and postgraduate institutes. Beyond academia, he is well known for his contributions to Human Resource Development and for his deep engagement with Carmelite spirituality and mysticism. His reflections on “Inner Silence and Divine Intimacy” have inspired many. He has been instrumental in establishing two contemplative centres: “Ryshivana”, a Centre for Inner Silence and Contemplation in Mangaluru, and “Divine Springs”, a prayer centre for youth and families at Xellim, Canacona, Goa. Fr. John is also a prolific writer and editor. He was the founder and chief editor of “Dhyana”, a journal for religion and spirituality, and the founder-editor of “Jeeva Jala”, a Kannada spiritual journal. He has contributed widely to reputed journals in philosophy and spirituality. Among his notable publications are Discipline of Dialogue (2001), Transforming Formation (2002), Combating Terrorism (2004), Thache Mogal Vengenth (2024), In His Abiding Love: Simple Steps to Contemplative Prayer (2024), Climbing the Mountain of the Lord: A Thirty-day Retreat on Contemplative Carmelite Spirituality (2025), and Beyond the Horizons of Love: St. Thérèse for Our Times (2026). Fr. John continues to be actively engaged in research and writing in the fields of philosophy, human resource development, and mysticism.

Infant Jesus Shrine Begins 40 Hours of Eucharistic Adoration for World Peace
Mangaluru, March 31: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, commenced its annual 40 Hours of Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration on March 31 at 6:00 a.m., offering prayers for peace in the world, especially in the backdrop of the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. This year marks the 16th year of this spiritual tradition at the Shrine, which has been drawing large numbers of devotees annually. Along with adoration, the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) is also being made available, enabling the faithful to experience spiritual renewal. The adoration began with the Holy Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Melvin D’Cunha, Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery. Delivering the homily, Fr. John Pinto, OCD, highlighted the biblical significance of the number 40. He explained that it symbolizes preparation for a greater mission - referring to the 40 years of the Israelites in the desert, Jesus’ 40 days of fasting before His public ministry, and the traditional understanding of Christ’s time in the tomb. He added that the 40 hours of adoration serve as a fitting response to the 40 days of Lent spent in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Fr. Stifan Perera, Director of the Shrine, expressed gratitude to the large number of devotees present and invited the faithful to spend time in the presence of the Eucharistic Lord. Following the Mass, the Blessed Sacrament was exposed for adoration. Various groups have been leading the adoration using different prayer formats. The sessions began with the Carmelite brothers of St. Joseph’s Monastery, followed by parishioners of Infant Mary Church, Bajjodi, the Secular Carmelites, the Bethany Sisters from the Provincial Community, Vamanjoor, and Fr. Rudolph Raj Pinto, National Secretary of the Liturgical Commission. In keeping with the Diocesan Year of Children, a special hour of adoration is being conducted by children. The program also features diverse forms of prayer. Fr. Albert Crasta from Pius Nagar, Udupi, will lead an adoration session using Gumta music, a traditional form close to the Konkani-speaking community. Fr. Jocy Siddakatte, along with Jason Lobo and the Blue Angels Choir, will lead instrumental adoration, while Fr. Cyril Lobo will conduct a Kannada bhajan-based session. The night vigil will be led by Fr. Boniface Pinto, Fr. Abraham D’Souza, SVD, Fr. Sunil Pinto, and Fr. Cyril Lobo. The adoration will continue on April 1, with a Taizé prayer at 7:00 p.m., followed by the concluding Benediction and blessing at 9:00 p.m. The event will conclude with a Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Fr. Deep Fernandes, Delegate Provincial to the Secular Carmelites. Devotees continue to flock to the Shrine, spending time in prayer and adoration before the Eucharistic Lord and availing themselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

From Carmel Hill to Holy Hill: Mangaluru Witnesses Powerful Public Way of the Cross
Mangaluru, March 29: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, organized a unique and spiritually enriching walking pilgrimage titled “Carmel Hill to Holy Hill” on the evening of Palm Sunday, marking the beginning of Holy Week. A large number of Christian faithful participated in the event, which began at 5:00 PM from the Shrine premises and concluded at Holy Hill, Maroli, at around 7:00 PM. As the pilgrims walked along the main road, they prayerfully meditated on the Stations of the Cross, reflecting on the final moments of Jesus Christ - from His arrest to His burial. A large cross was reverently carried by the participants, symbolizing their devotion and unity in faith. Meaningful reflections were offered at each station, helping the faithful enter more deeply into the mystery of Christ’s passion. The Rosary was also recited throughout the journey, with special prayers offered for peace in the world, particularly in the context of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. This event, the first of its kind in Mangaluru city, aimed to foster spiritual renewal and communal prayer during the sacred season of Lent. Upon reaching Holy Hill, Fr. Melwin D’Cunha, Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery, imparted a blessing to the gathered faithful with the sprinkling of holy water. Fr. Stifan Perera, Director of the Infant Jesus Shrine, expressed gratitude to all who participated and contributed to the success of the pilgrimage. Also present on the occasion were Fr. Deep Fernandes, Vice Rector of St. Joseph’s Monastery, along with members of the Bethany Sisters and the Sisters of St. Ann’s Providence Convent. Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, the most sacred time in the Christian liturgical year, culminating in the celebration of the Easter Triduum - Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Holy Hill, located at Maroli, is a well-known place of devotion. A large cross was erected there following a spiritual experience of Mr. Paul Rodrigues and was blessed on September 24, 1997, by the late Fr. Francis Rebello. Since then, it has become a popular destination for personal prayer and meditation. Situated on a hilltop, it offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere and remains open to devotees daily from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Infant Jesus Shrine Marks International Women’s Day with Special Way of the Cross
Marking International Women’s Day, a special Way of the Cross devotion dedicated to women was held at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru, on March 8, Sunday evening. The weekly devotion was led by the women of the community, including members of the Secular Carmelites, who also carried the Cross and led the reflections during the devotion. The reflections highlighted the various crosses that women carry in modern life - in their personal lives, families, and in society. Speaking on the occasion, Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, Director of the Shrine, reflected on the significant role of women in the ministry of Jesus. He noted that in the time of Jesus, women often had little voice in society, yet Jesus broke social barriers by including and uplifting them in His mission. He pointed out that women remained close to Jesus during His suffering - seen in figures such as Veronica and the women of Jerusalem - and stood faithfully at the foot of the Cross even when many of the disciples had fled. Furthermore, it was the women who first encountered the risen Christ and became the first witnesses to proclaim the message of the Resurrection. Fr. Perera emphasized that the example of these women reveals profound faith, courage, dedication, and commitment, inspiring believers even today. Inspired by this biblical witness, the shrine dedicated Sunday’s Way of the Cross to praying for all women and for their dignity, strength, and wellbeing. A large number of devotees participated in the devotion, which concluded with Adoration and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

Special Way of the Cross for Peace Held at Infant Jesus Shrine
On Sunday, March 1, the Infant Jesus Shrine conducted a special open-air Way of the Cross, fervently praying for peace in the world, especially in the Middle East. The devotion was organized in response to the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran, which has resulted in significant loss of life, widespread destruction, and countless injuries. The faithful gathered in large numbers to intercede for peace, mindful of the immense suffering caused by war. Particular prayers were offered for innocent civilians who continue to bear the brunt of violence and instability. The congregation also remembered with concern the many families from the region whose loved ones are working in the Gulf countries and Israel to support their households. With flights cancelled and tensions escalating, several workers remain stranded, leaving their families in deep anxiety and uncertainty. Each Station of the Cross reflected not only on the Passion of Christ but also on the root causes of war, the rise of hatred among world leaders and nations, and the urgent need for reconciliation and dialogue. The Carmelite theology brothers of St. Joseph’s Monastery offered profound and meaningful reflections at every station, helping the faithful connect Christ’s suffering with the pain of the modern world. The devotion concluded with the solemn celebration of the Divine Office (Prayer of the Church) followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, Shrine Director, Rev. Fr. Melvin D’Cunha, Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery, and several other priests were present for the prayer service.

Blessing of Temporary Garden of Gethsemane at Infant Jesus Shrine
Bikarnakatte, Feb. 27: The newly set up temporary Garden of Gethsemane was solemnly blessed at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, on February 27 by Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza. The initiative has been arranged as part of the Lenten observances to help the faithful enter more deeply into prayer and reflection on the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Lent is a sacred season of introspection, calling believers to examine their lives and make necessary spiritual changes. In keeping with this spirit, a special set of 14 Stations of the Cross has been thoughtfully arranged within the Shrine premises. Each station includes a short reflection, three questions for personal examination, and a concluding prayer, enabling devotees to prayerfully make the Way of the Cross individually at their convenience. During the blessing ceremony, Fr. Walter D’Souza invoked God’s grace upon the newly erected stations and prayed in a special way for all who would visit the Garden of Gethsemane to seek strength, healing, and spiritual renewal. The Theology Brothers of St. Joseph’s Monastery conducted the Way of the Cross with devotion and solemnity. A large number of faithful gathered for the Friday Lenten devotion, participating prayerfully in the service. At the centre of the stations stands a striking image of Ecce Homo (“Behold the Man”), serving as a powerful reminder of the suffering Christ and inviting devotees to contemplate His sacrifice with gratitude and repentance.

Open-Air Way of the Cross Held at Infant Jesus Shrine
Mangaluru, February 22, 2026: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte organized an open-air Way of the Cross on Sunday, February 22, 2026, marking the First Sunday of Lent. Despite it being a busy Sunday, a large number of faithful gathered to participate in the Lenten devotion. Lent, the forty-day penitential season in the Christian calendar, invites the faithful to meditate on the life of Jesus, especially His Passion and Death. The devotion began at the entrance of the Shrine with introductory words by Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, OCD, Shrine Director. The procession then moved prayerfully through the calm and serene campus, where the fourteen stations depicting the final hours of Jesus were meaningfully set up to help the faithful reflect deeply. During the devotion, participants took turns carrying a wooden cross, symbolizing their willingness to share in Christ’s suffering. The reflections for each station were led by the Bethany Sisters under the guidance of Rev. Sr. Reena D’Souza, Superior of Santa Cruz Convent, Kulshekar. The prayerful gathering concluded with Eucharistic Adoration, praying the Divine Office (Breviary), and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. The event marked a spiritually enriching beginning to the Lenten journey for the faithful, offering them an opportunity for reflection, repentance, and renewal.

Infant Jesus Shrine Prays for Students as Exams Approach
Mangaluru, February 21, 2026: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte organized a special prayer service for students appearing for examinations on February 21, 2026, seeking God’s blessings for their academic success and future. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by John Pinto, OCD. In his homily, he highlighted how the examination period often becomes stressful not only for students but also for parents. He encouraged the children to prepare a personal timetable, follow it sincerely, study regularly, and remain calm and confident during exams. Following the Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration was held, during which special prayers were offered for students, parents, and teachers. The children were later anointed with holy oil and blessed, invoking God’s grace and guidance in their studies. Addressing the gathering, Rev Fr. Stifan Perera, OCD, Director of the Shrine, extended his best wishes to the students for success in their examinations and a bright future. Rev Fr. Wilson Tauro, OCD, the Vocation Promoter, concelebrated the Eucharist. As the year has been declared the ‘Year of the Children’ by the Diocese of Mangalore, the prayer service held special significance. The Infant Jesus Shrine has consistently organized such programmes at the beginning of the academic year and during examination periods, reaffirming its commitment to supporting students through prayer and pastoral care. The event witnessed active participation from students, parents, and teachers, reflecting the Shrine’s role as a centre of faith, encouragement, and spiritual guidance for the community.

“Lenten Gospel Comics” Book Released at Infant Jesus Shrine
Mangaluru, February 19, 2026: A unique and child-friendly Lenten publication titled Lenten Gospel Comics was released at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru, on February 19, 2026, the day after Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of the forty-day season of prayer, fasting, and penance in the Catholic Church. The book is specially designed to help children understand and experience the Gospel in an engaging and meaningful way during Lent. Recognizing that Scripture can sometimes appear distant or difficult for young readers, the publication presents the message of Jesus through simple storytelling, creative illustrations, and gentle humour, making it both accessible and spiritually enriching. Speaking on the occasion, Fr Stifan Perera, OCD, Director of the Infant Jesus Shrine, highlighted the importance of nurturing children’s faith through innovative and relatable methods. He noted that the book encourages young readers to walk with Jesus on His journey toward the Cross and the joy of Easter with deeper understanding and enthusiasm. Explaining the concept of the book, Fr Richard Menezes, OCD, the author and Director of Dhyana Sadhana, said that each day’s Gospel is presented in two parts: a child-friendly narrative and a practical reflection that helps children apply the message in their daily lives. He added that the book integrates religious formation and psychological insight for holistic growth. The book was officially released by Rev Fr Melwyn D'Cunha, along with Rev Fr Walter D'Souza, OCD, and Rev Fr. Stifan Perera, the Shrine Director. The publication marks a significant contribution to modern catechesis, offering families and educators a creative tool to deepen children’s faith during Lent.

Eucharistic Procession Brings Grand Conclusion to 12-Day Infant Jesus Feast Celebrations
Mangaluru, Jan 16, 2026: The twelve-day-long Annual Feast celebrations of the Infant Jesus concluded on a grand and deeply prayerful note on January 15, 2026, with a solemn Eucharistic procession at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte. The concluding day drew an estimated one lakh devotees from different walks of life, while around 6,000 faithful took part in the Eucharistic procession held after the Thanksgiving Mass. The Thanksgiving Holy Mass was presided over by Msgr Maxim Noronha, Vicar General of the Diocese of Mangaluru. Following the Mass, thousands of devotees, holding lighted candles, participated in the Eucharistic procession, walking prayerfully through the surroundings of the Shrine in an atmosphere charged with devotion and reverence. In his message, drawing inspiration from the spirituality of St John of the Cross, the celebrant invited the faithful to face the challenges of life - such as sickness, depression, unemployment, and misunderstandings - with trust and faith in God. “Just as a branch must remain united to the stem in order to bear fruit, so too we must remain united to God,” he said, “only then will our lives bear the fruits of love, mercy, kindness, peace, and patience.” He further emphasised that prayer is the true source of strength to overcome life’s hurdles, pointing to the example of St John of the Cross who, “even in times of neglect and suffering, remained steadfast in faith and thus reached deep union with God.”

Five Festal Masses and Day-long Devotions
The concluding day of the Feast was marked by five Holy Eucharistic celebrations in Konkani and Malayalam to accommodate the large gathering of pilgrims. The day began with the 6:00 a.m. Mass celebrated by Rev. Dr Wilfred Rodrigues, Dean of Studies at Pushpashrama, College of Philosophy, Mysuru. This was followed by the 8:00 a.m. Mass celebrated by Fr Clifford Rodrigues, OCD, from Bengaluru. The highlight of the morning was the 10:00 a.m. solemn Mass celebrated by Rt. Rev. Dominic Dias, Bishop of Karwar and Apostolic Administrator of Shivamogga, with a special focus on children and families. The morning liturgies were conducted in Konkani and Malayalam, reflecting the multicultural character of the devotees. A special Eucharistic Adoration was held later in the morning and was led by Fr Prakash D’Cunha, OCD, during which prayers were offered in a special way for children and for various intentions of the faithful. This moment of silent prayer and reflection was deeply appreciated by the devotees. In the afternoon, a community meal (Anna Santarpane) was served to the devotees, strengthening the spirit of fellowship and sharing. The Malayalam Masses continued in the afternoon, allowing more pilgrims to participate in the liturgical celebrations.

Procession, Benediction, and Closing Ceremony
Following the final Mass, a solemn Eucharistic procession was held, during which the Blessed Sacrament was carried reverently as the faithful joined in hymns and prayers. The procession concluded with a solemn Benediction, invoking God’s blessings upon all present. The closing ceremony of the Annual Feast was marked by the lowering of the Infant Jesus flag by Rev. Fr Joseph Silvestre D’Souza, OCD, Provincial Superior of the Karnataka–Goa Province of the Discalced Carmelites, symbolising the formal conclusion of the Feast celebrations.

A Celebration of Faith and Community
The Annual Feast 2026 concluded in an atmosphere of deep devotion, gratitude, and community spirit, leaving behind a lasting spiritual impact on the thousands of devotees who participated in the twelve days of prayer, celebration, and fellowship.

Second Day of Infant Jesus Feast Draws Nearly 40,000 Devotees; Bishop of Karwar Leads Special Children’s Mass
Bikarnakatte, Jan 15, 2026: The second day of the Annual Feast of the Infant Jesus at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees, with an estimated 40,000 faithful visiting the Shrine throughout the day to offer prayers and seek blessings. A total of five Holy Eucharistic celebrations were held in Konkani and Malayalam to accommodate the large number of pilgrims. The highlight of the day was the solemn Festal Mass for children at 10:00 a.m., presided over by Rt. Rev. Dominic Dias, Bishop of Karwar. Children had gathered in great numbers for this special celebration, which was entirely organised and animated by them. For the first time, a children-led brass band from St Sebastian Church, Bendur, accompanied the festive liturgy, adding a joyful yet solemn note to the celebration. The Infant Jesus Choir, also led by children, further enriched the Eucharistic celebration, while the entire liturgy - including the readings and singing - was meaningfully animated by children themselves, making the celebration especially vibrant and prayerful. In his homily, Bishop Dominic Dias addressed both children and parents, inviting families to give special importance to the Christian formation of the young. He said, “See that your children grow like the Child Jesus, who was obedient to His parents and grew in wisdom and grace. When your children go astray, be good shepherds to them and guide them with love and patience.” He also expressed his appreciation for the deep devotion of the people and for the dedicated service of the Carmelite Fathers, especially for their availability for confessions and spiritual guidance. Prizes were distributed to the winners of the various competitions organised by the Shrine, including the Infant Jesus Portrait Drawing Competition, the Christmas Family Poster Competition, and the Creative Star Competition. The first Holy Mass of the day was celebrated by Rev. Fr Wilfred Rodrigues, OCD, from Mysuru, followed by the second Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr Clifford Rodrigues, OCD, from Bengaluru. The 1:00 p.m. Mass in Malayalam was also well attended. A large number of priests and religious sisters participated in the liturgical celebrations. As a gesture of fellowship and hospitality, Anna Santarpane (community meal) was served to all the devotees at noon. On the occasion of the Bishop’s maiden visit to the Shrine, Rev. Fr Melwyn D’Cunha, Superior of St Joseph’s Monastery, offered a statue of the Infant Jesus to Bishop Dominic Dias as a token of love and remembrance. The second day of the Feast thus became a joyful and faith-filled celebration, especially marked by the vibrant participation of children and families, and by the Bishop’s inspiring call to nurture the young in Christian values.

Infant Jesus Annual Feast Begins with Grand Devotional Fervour at Bikarnakatte
Bikarnakatte, Jan 14, 2026: The Annual Feast of the Infant Jesus at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, began this morning with an overwhelming response from devotees who arrived in large numbers, cutting across caste, creed, and language, to seek the blessings of the Infant Jesus. The celebration was the culmination of nine days of Novena prayerfully observed in preparation for the Feast. The theme chosen for this year’s feast, “Called to Carmel, to the Wedding Feast of the Lamb,” draws inspiration from the spirituality of St John of the Cross. This year holds special significance for the Carmelite family and the universal Church as it marks the 300th anniversary of the canonisation and the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of St John of the Cross as Doctor of the Church. A great Spanish mystic and one of the foremost spiritual teachers of the Church, St John of the Cross is honoured especially for his profound spiritual writings, including The Ascent of Mount Carmel, The Dark Night of the Soul, The Living Flame of Love, and The Spiritual Canticle. The first Mass at 6:00 a.m. was presided over by Rev. Fr Stifan Perera, OCD, Director of the Shrine. The homily was preached by Rev. Fr Rudolph D’Souza, OCD, presently serving in Canada, who delivered an inspiring message. A large number of devotees had gathered in the early hours of the morning to honour the Infant Jesus. The second Mass in English was celebrated by Rev. Fr Jesvin Binoy, OCD, from Bengaluru. The third and main solemn Mass at 10:00 a.m. was presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of Mangaluru. The Shrine premises were completely filled, and many devotees had to park their vehicles at a distance and walk to the Shrine to participate in the celebrations. The homily at the solemn Mass was preached by Rev. Fr Jocy Siddakatte, OCD, former Editor of Naman Ballok Jesu. In his message, the Bishop wished all the devotees a happy feast and appreciated the spiritual services rendered by the Carmelite Fathers through the Shrine. He remarked, “The Fathers here are always available to attend to the spiritual needs of the people. That is what draws so many faithful to this Shrine,” and encouraged the priests to continue their zealous service. He also referred to the Year of Children declared in the Diocese of Mangaluru and exhorted parents to give special attention to the Christian formation of their children. Following the solemn Mass, Fr Jocy Siddakatte led the Eucharistic Adoration, during which special prayers were offered for the sick, the elderly, and all the devotees. The Mass in Kannada was celebrated by Rev. Fr Patrick Jonas Rao. As a gesture of fellowship and hospitality, a midday meal (Anna Santarpane) was served to all the devotees. At noon, Mr Vedavyas Kamath, MLA of Mangalore South Constituency, visited the Shrine and offered prayers. He was received by Rev. Fr Stifan Perera, OCD, Director of the Shrine, and Rev. Fr Melwyn D’Cunha, Superior of St Joseph’s Monastery, who presented him with a statue of the Infant Jesus. The MLA lit candles, spent time in prayer, and later appreciated the efforts taken by the Shrine in organising the Feast and serving the faithful. The Annual Feast thus began on a deeply prayerful and festive note, with thousands of devotees gathering to honour the Infant Jesus and to seek His blessings.

Naman Balok Jezu January 2023

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