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Reported by Archibald Furtado
Photographs: Richard DSouza / Stephen Andrade, Kallianpur.
Udupi: As the grand finale of the week-long ‘Milagres Utsav 2026’ today the Milagreans gathered in unity and devotion to celebrate the Annual Parish Feast with deep faith, thanksgiving and majestic splendour.
The entire vicinity of the historic Milagres Cathedral wore a festive look. Spectacular illumination, colourful buntings and artistic paintings transformed the surroundings into a visual delight. Roads leading to Kallianpur sparkled with joy ever since ‘Confraternity Sunday’ on 18th January, ‘Sauharda Koota & Prathibha Puraskar’ on Monday 19th 2026, Vespers on yesterday evening…..making this celebration not just a parish event but a feast for the whole society and surrounding irrespective of caste creed or religion….
Behind this magnificent celebration stood the dedicated ‘Pirjenth Wilson Fernandes and his wife Leena Fernandes’, whose family spared no effort to make this festival memorable. Their wholehearted service ensured that every aspect reflected perfection – vibrant religious fervour, quality entertainment, and deliciously organised community dinners on both Sunday and Monday.
Festal Day – Wednesday, 21st January.
The day dawned bright and beautiful as the Milagres Cathedral joyfully welcomed the main celebrant Rt. Rev. Dr. Henry D’Souza, Bishop of Bellary Diocese. At 9.45 am, he was accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome.
The ‘Fernandes family’ arrived in a colourful procession led by Sunshine Brass band playing melodious tunes and were honourably received at the church entrance by the Rector, Monsignor Very Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Gonsalves.
At sharp 10.00 am, the founders of this 345-year-old historic Church, one of the earliest in the region, were honoured with blessed candles as a mark of respect and gratitude.
The Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council, Mr. Melwyn Sequeira, along with office bearers and members, were also honoured with decorated candles.
Prayerful Eucharistic Celebration.
The renowned Milagrean Choir, known for its spiritual excellence, lifted hearts with the entrance hymn “Kithlen Sobith Mandir Tujehn…”.
A dignified procession followed with Bishop Henry D’Souza, priests of Kallianpur Deanery, guest and native priests, accompanied by a brass band playing soulful hymns, creating a heavenly ambience.
The wooden High Altar of Mother Milagres, our patroness, appeared even more radiant, drawing everyone’s eyes and hearts.
Homily – A Feast of the Word.
Breaking the Word of God, Bishop Henry D’Souza beautifully focused on the feast theme:
“With Mother Mary closer to God and neighbours with service…”
His sermon was spiritually enriching, thought-provoking and deeply inspiring – truly a feast of words and wisdom as he gave six tips for a happy family life and set priorities first place to God, followed by husband and wife, children, family, extended family and society….
Vicar General and Rector of the Cathedral Monsignor Ferdinand Gonsalves thanked every one especially Pirjenth Wilson Fernandes and family honoured with a decorated candle by Bishop.
Rev Fr John Fernandes Vicar of Brahmmavar Holy Family Church conveyed festal greetings to all on behalf of the priests of the Deanery and expressed happiness to be present and participate…
The liturgy of the celebrations were meticulously organised by Asst. Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Pradeep Cardoza and his dedicated team, touching the hearts of the large gathering.
To conclude the beautiful Thanks Giving High Mass main celebrant Bishop reminded again Family is the Foundation of Church and Mother Mary the patroness is our model….
Unity Beyond Boundaries.
The ‘Annual Milagres Parish Feast’ always attracts devotees from neighbouring parishes, as this is the Mother Church of the region.
People of all faiths participated in large numbers. The grounds were overflowing during Vespers and the celebrations continued vibrantly today.
YCS and ICYM members set up colourful stalls to entertain and raise funds – offering sweets, ice creams, refreshments, housie games and religious articles. Truly, it was a once-a-year joyous experience for all.
Grand Finale –a full package of entertainment Wilfy Nite.
The much-awaited record ‘289th Wilfy Nite’ is scheduled at 6.00 pm, promising wholesome entertainment.
People were offered more than they ever expected and delighted during ‘Milagres Utsav 2026’, thanks to the generous sponsorship and initiative of ‘Pirjenth Wilson Fernandes and family’, as a token of gratitude for the countless blessings received through Mother Milagres.
May Mother Milagres continue to bless every family and guide us closer to God through her intercession.
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