Mangalore: Triple celebration at St. Lawrence Church, Bondel

Mangalore: At 3 PM, Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo blessed the newly declared St. Lawrence Shrine. Bishop Aloysius Paul D'Souza inaugurated the Renovated Church. Bishop Peter Paul Saldana celebrated the Solemn Mass and blessed the Altar with chrism oil, the tabernacle, and officially handed over the keys to Parish Priest Fr. Andrew D'Souza. 

The con-celebrants included Vicar General Msgr Maxim Noronha, Vicar Forane Rev.Fr James D'Souza, City Vicariate, Rev.Fr J.B. Saldanha, the P.R.O. of Mangalore Diocese, the Chancellor of the Mangalore V Rev. Dr Victor D’Souza  and Udupi Diocese V Rev. Dr Roshan D’Souza and all the priests.

Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo, presiding over the Eucharistic celebration, delivered a profound homily highlighting three key aspects of God’s house

Bishop  Peter Paul lit a candle and passed it to the parish priest is a symbolic act of passing on the light of Christ. Bishop  presented the keys of the tabernacle to the parish priest, symbolizing the mission entrusted to him in the parish.Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha officially declared St. Lawrence Church as a shrine. He read the decree formalizing this elevation and ceremoniously handed it over to the parish priest, marking a significant moment in the history of the parish. This declaration highlights the church's importance as a spiritual and pilgrimage center, honoring its deep devotion to St. Lawrence.The papal blessing from Pope Francis was read by Msgr  Maxim Noronha VG, adding a global significance to the celebration. The Vote of Thanks by Parish priest Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza expressed gratitude to the Bishops, Priests, and laity, recognizing the unwavering faith and support of the community in making this historic day possible.

In a heartwarming gesture during the Solemn Mass, Bishop Peter Paul Saldana extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Parish Priest Rev. Fr Andrew and the entire Parish community on the remarkable milestone of a hundred years of unwavering faith.The entire liturgical inauguration ceremony was led by Rev. Dr. Praveen Leo Lasrado. Who conducted it with great excellence and devotion.

The formal function of the centenary celebration began at 5:30 p.m. on the church premises, exuding a spirit of gratitude, joy, and community. 

The event commenced with a grand welcome for the Bishops, Dignitaries, and guests, who were honored on the dais with shawls and mementos. This gesture highlighted the parish's appreciation for their support and contributions. 

Symbolism of Hope, Love, and Faith the theme of the evening, "Hope, Love, Faith," was brought to life in a heartwarming ceremony where three pigeons were released by the Bishops.The evening's program featured a prelude by Dr. Preethi D’Souza, setting a reflective tone for the gathering. Dr. Suraj, accompanied by his team, led a beautiful song of praise, filling the air with a sense of divine presence and celebration. Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza in his welcome address, warmly greeted all the Bishops, Religious leaders, Dignitaries on the dais, and the faithful gathered.

Bishop Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha emphasized the strong bond between the people and the church, stating, the people were built first, then their hearts, and together they built the church. The renovated St. Lawrence Church and shrine will now stand as a beacon of faith, blessing all who pass by and pray for miracles in their lives. 

Speaker UT Khader expressed his admiration for the shrine’s historical and spiritual significance, St. Lawrence Shrine, Bondel. This shrine is a feather in its cap and can promote tourism, drawing many devotees. With 100 years completed, it is now up to the youth to take it forward for the next 100 years by spreading hope, faith, and love. He also released the souvenir and ceremoniously handed over the keys to the Centenary Memorial House, adding another milestone to the celebrations

Manoj Kumar, Mayor of Mangalore City Corporation, Lauded the efforts of the Parish Priest and the architect, and Colin Pinto, during his heartfelt address.

Sangeetha R Nayak  Corporator, Pachanady Ward  highlighted the significance of the shrine, calling it a symbol of peace and unity. “St. Lawrence Shrine stands as the 6th shrine in the Mangalore Diocese.

Bishop Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop Emeritus Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Speaker UT Khader, and Mayor Manoj Kumar were honored for their contributions. Former Parish priests, main Sponsors, Parishioners, Donors, Architects, and Contractors were recognized for their role in the shrine's renovation and centenary celebrations.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent figures, including: Mayor Manoj Kumar, Corporator Sangeetha R Nayak, and former Mayor Jayanand Anchan. Religious leaders, including Rev.Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza Parish Priest , Dr. Maxim L. Noronha (Vicar General), Rev. Fr ajmes D’Souza Vicar Forane-City Vicariate, Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves Principal SLEMS, Rev. Fr William D’Souza and representatives from various religious Congregations. Sponsors such as Sophia D’Souza (sanctuary Sponsor) Michael D'Souza (Adoration Chapel sponsor),Bonaventure D'Souza (Shrine Sponsor)  and Franky D'Souza (  Altar wall  sponsor).Gregory D’Silva Altar Sponsor.

In a heartwarming display of community and hospitality, supper was generously served  for 15000 people ,The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Rev.Fr William D'Souza.