Sea of Devotees Throng Annual Fest of Our Lady of Vailankanni Shrine, Kalmady
Udupi: The annual feast of Our Lady of Velankanni Shrine at Stella Maris Church-Kalmady was celebrated on Friday, August 15.
The Bishop of Udupi Diocese Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo celebrated the festive mass along with Fr. Stephan D’Souza Chancellor of the Diocese Fr Charles Menezes Dean Udupi Deanery, Fr Alban D’Souza Rector of St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Fr Baptist Menezes, Rector of Kalmady and other priests.
In his homily, the Bishop stressed the holiness of Mother Mary and said that she was lifted up to Heaven body and soul as per God’s plan. “She is a real role model for all human beings who have doubts about life after death. Her faith and obedience to God made this happen.”
In today’s world filled with fear, anxiety, and hardships, Mother Mary stands as a beacon of hope. “In her life, Mother Mary completely obeyed God’s word and placed her faith in Him. In every difficult situation she faced, she did not run away in fear; rather, she strengthened her faith in the Lord. Even when her only son, Jesus Christ, was crucified, she did not waver in her faith but continued to believe in God.”
Faith in God is always a light of hope for us. Whether in joy or in sorrow, Mother Mary teaches us never to lose faith in God. Her generosity and readiness to help those in need inspire us to help others as well, he said.
This year’s feast was celebrated under the theme “Our Lady, Queen of Hope”. As preparation for the feast, nine days of novena prayers were held. Thousands of devotees participated in the annual celebration.
Fr Baptist Menezes, director of the Kalmady Vailankanni Shrine, expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the organization and arrangements of the feast. Donors and sponsors were honoured by the bishop with blessed candles.
Parish council vice-president Ida D’Souza, secretary Stanly Menezes, convener of the 20 commissions Jeneview Lobo and others were present.
Pics: Praveen Correa, Sany Digitals