New Year’s Eve observed at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur.

kallianpurdotcom: 02/01/24

Udupi: The Milagres Cathedral,  Kallianpur marked the Solemnity of Mother, the Holy Mother of God, and the New Year’s Eve vigil on December 31, 2023, with profound devotion and enthusiasm.

The  evening liturgy commenced at 7 pm with the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, guided by Rev Fr. Joy Andrade, the Asst. Parish Priest of the  Cathedral. The choir, under the direction of Very Rev Fr. Valerian Mendonca, accompanied the ceremony with beautifully composed hymns.

Most Rev Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, the Bishop of Udupi Diocese, was the main celebrant for the Solemn High Mass concelebrated by  Very Rev Fr. Valerian Mendonca, Rector, Rev Fr. Joy Andrade, Asst. Parish Priest, Rev Fr. Hector D’Souza SJ, guest priest, Rev Fr. Nithesh D’Souza, Vocational Director of Pilar Fathers, Kallianpur, and Rev Fr. Ronson D’Souza, parishioner and Director of Holy Cross Students Home, Katapady.

Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo, in his eloquent homily, emphasized Mother Mary’s role in comforting those facing difficulties. He described her as the mother of God in heaven, always present with her children, and a precious gift from God to humanity.

Reflecting on Mary’s acceptance of the Word of God, Bishop Lobo urged every Christian to emulate her and embrace Jesus within, subsequently sharing His message with others. Mary’s obedience, trust in God’s promises, and commitment to God’s plan of salvation were highlighted, with Bishop Lobo quoting Mary’s proclamation, “My soul glorifies the Lord.”

The Bishop underscored Mary’s pivotal role in giving birth to and nurturing Jesus, emphasizing her obedience as a blessing for humanity. Mary became the model of perfect love and obedience to Christ.

As the mass concluded, Very Rev Fr. Valerian Mendonca extended New Year wishes and gratitude to the Bishop, priests, and the faithful. The Bishop distributed decorated candles to the main sponsor and co-sponsors of the event.

Following this, Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo conveyed messages and wishes to parishioners and non-resident parishioners. Prizes were distributed to the winners of  greeting card competition held by YCS members,   a crib and star competition held by ICYM members  and a Bible quiz held by the editorial team of Milarchi Laram.  The YCS and ICYM members also held a  Housie game after the mass participated by all parishoners enthusiastically.

The New Year celebrations commenced with the release of torch balloons into the air by the Bishop and the Rector, organized by ICYM members. A large crowd of faithful gathered in the Cathedral to usher in the New Year with a thanksgiving mass, exchanging greetings with each other after the service.