Bondel, Mangaluru: The ninth and final day of the Novena in preparation for the Annual Feast of St Lawrence was celebrated with faith and devotion at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, centred on the theme, “Through Their Generosity and Service, the Church Is Strengthened.”
The morning Holy Mass at 11:00 a.m. was celebrated by Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of Mangalore. Concelebrating were Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Parish Priest and Shrine Rector; Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Peter Mascarenhas; and Rev. Fr George, OFM Cap.
In his homily, Bishop Aloysius Paul D’Souza highlighted the importance of love, sacrifice, forgiveness, prayer and unity in family life. He encouraged families to live, eat and pray together, emphasizing that quality time strengthens family bonds. Referring to Pope Francis and the example of the early Christians, he urged families to preserve a spirit of togetherness, sharing and mutual care.
The morning liturgy was led by parishioners of Bajal, Thokur and Bondel, with the Bajal Parish Choir providing the devotional music.
The evening celebration began with Eucharistic Adoration at 5:30 p.m., followed by Holy Mass at 6:00 p.m., presided over by Most Rev. Dr Ignatius Paul D’Souza Bishop of Bareilly. Concelebrating were Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, and Rev. Fr George, OFM Cap.
In his homily, Bishop Ignatius Paul reflected on how God speaks in the silence of our hearts, as He spoke to Elijah through the gentle whisper at Horeb. He encouraged the faithful to recognize Jesus in moments of fear and difficulty, experience His grace and presence, and, like Peter, “leave the boat” and step out in faith to follow Jesus.
The evening liturgy was led by parishioners of Milagres, Cascia and Bondel, with the Milagres Kids Choir enriching the celebration through their prayerful hymns.
Special prayers were offered for all donors and benefactors, thanking God for their generosity and praying for His abundant blessings upon them.