A Decade of Faith and Devotion: Attur Basilica Celebrates Decennial of Dedication

A Decade of Faith and Devotion: Attur Basilica Celebrates Decennial of Dedication

Karkala: “Our lives become meaningful when we make every effort to understand the struggles of the poor, the destitute and the oppressed and strive to become a source of happiness in 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 distributed the wealth of the Church among the poor and needy, continues to remain an exemplary model for all. He called upon the faithful to embrace and practise the values and 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 celebrations.

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 were honoured for their significant contributions towards the construction of the Krista Kripa building and their service as directors of the Basilica. 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. Mr. Melwyn Castelino, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, presented the decennial report. Mr. Vandish Mathias, Vice-President of the Parish Pastoral Council, proposed the vote of thanks, while Mr. Wilson Tellis compered the programme.

Vicar General of the Diocese of Udupi V. Rev. Msgr. Francis Louis and Mrs. Rita Lobo, Coordinator of the Pastoral Commissions, were present on the dais.

A community meal was arranged for all those who attended the celebrations.