ಕಾರ್ಕಳ: “Our lives become meaningful when we make every effort to understand the struggles of the poor, the destitute and the oppressed and become a reason for bringing happiness into their lives,” said Most Rev. Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza, Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi.
He was speaking after presiding over the felicitation programme held as part of the decennial celebrations of the dedication of the historic St Lawrence Basilica, Attur, and the titular feast of St Lawrence.
Bishop D’Souza said St Lawrence, who shared the wealth of the Church with the poor and the needy, remains an exemplary model for all. He called upon the faithful to embrace and practise the principles that St Lawrence preached and lived by.
Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Udupi, delivered the homily during the concelebrated Eucharistic celebration. Vicar General of the Diocese of Udupi, V. Rev. Msgr. Francis Louis, Chancellor V. Rev. Fr Stephen D’Souza, several priests and a large number of devotees participated in the celebration.
The Bishop of Udupi was accorded a grand welcome at the main entrance of the Basilica at the beginning of the programme. This was followed by the blessing of the Krista Kripa building and the foundation-stone laying ceremony for the new altar, conducted under the leadership of Bishop D’Souza.
As part of the decennial celebrations held after the Eucharistic celebration, V. Rev. Fr Alban D’Souza, Rev. Fr George D’Souza and Rev. Fr Roman Mascarenhas, who had rendered significant service towards the construction of the Krista Kripa building and had served as directors of the Basilica, were honoured. The retired and serving bishops of the Diocese of Udupi were also felicitated on behalf of the Basilica.
V. Rev. Fr Alban D’Souza, Director of the Basilica, welcomed the gathering. Melwyn Castelino, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, presented the decennial report. Vandish Mathias, Vice-President of the Parish Pastoral Council proposed the vote of thanks, while Wilson Tellis compered the programme.
Vicar General of the Diocese of Udupi, V. Rev. Msgr. Francis Louis and Rita Lobo, Coordinator of the Pastoral Commissions, were present on the dais.
A community meal was arranged for all those who attended the celebrations.