St. Mary’s Church, Marianagar, Celebrates 49th Parish Foundation Day and Feast
Marianagar (Hassan District): St. Mary’s Church, Bellame, Marianagar, in the Diocese of Chikmagalur, celebrated its 49th Parish Foundation Day and the feast of its patron, Our Lady, with great joy, devotion and enthusiasm on Monday, embracing the spirit of synodality—walking together, listening to one another and sharing in the mission of the Church.
The celebration was a vibrant expression of faith, unity and communion, bringing together the parish priest, Rev. Fr. R. Rajendra; religious sisters; parish council members; women; youth; children; parishioners; and devotees of Mother Mary. The congregation gathered as one parish family, renewing its commitment to journey together in faith and mission for the greater glory of God.
The parish choir enriched the liturgical celebrations with melodious hymns, encouraging the congregation to participate prayerfully in praising the Lord. At the conclusion of the celebrations, Rev. Fr. R. Rajendra expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful organization of the parish foundation day and feast.
Solemn Festal Mass and Inspiring Homily
The solemn festal Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Balaraj, Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church, Josephnagar, who is celebrating the silver jubilee of his priestly ordination this year. He was honoured with a shawl and garland in recognition of his 25 years of dedicated priestly service.
Very Rev. Fr. Paul D’Souza, Dean and Parish Priest of Our Lady of Victories Church, Balehonnur, and former parish priest of Marianagar, delivered the homily. He was also honoured for his significant contribution to the parish, particularly his dedicated service in constructing the new church.
Reflecting on the theme, “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5), drawn from the wedding feast at Cana, Fr. Paul invited the faithful to deepen their trust in the Lord and faithfully follow His commandments. He emphasized that when people welcome God into their hearts and minds and remain faithful to His Word, He guides them through difficulties and works wonders in their lives. Even in moments of uncertainty and hardship, he urged the congregation to place their confidence in the Lord, who never abandons those who trust in Him.
Drawing inspiration from Sirach 44:8–15, which reflects on the lives and enduring legacy of faithful ancestors, Fr. Paul highlighted the importance of respecting parents and elders. He urged the faithful never to neglect their parents, particularly in their old age, but to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices they have made for the welfare and happiness of their families.
He noted that the love, dedication, hard work and values passed on by parents form the foundation of family life and constitute a precious legacy for future generations. A person’s true greatness, he said, lies not merely in fame, wealth or worldly achievements, but in a life of faith, goodness, mercy and selfless service.
Just as faithful ancestors are remembered for their virtues and wisdom, parents and elders deserve love, gratitude and honour for their invaluable contributions to their families and society. Fr. Paul called on the congregation to foster a culture of care, respect and responsibility towards the elderly, ensuring that they are never abandoned or forgotten but are treated with dignity and affection.
The contribution of the marble altar was also acknowledged during the celebration. Mr. Wilson Varuni and his wife, Mrs. Varuni, were honoured for their generosity and philanthropic support for the church, which stands as a testament to their faith and commitment to the spiritual life of the parish.
Nearly 30 priests from the dioceses of Chikmagalur and Mysore participated in the feast celebrations, making the occasion a significant expression of priestly fraternity, solidarity and ecclesial communion.
Three-Day Novena Prepares the Faithful
As part of the spiritual preparation for the feast, a three-day novena was conducted, providing the faithful with opportunities for prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal.
First Day: Mary, Mother of All Saints
The first day of the novena was held on October 9, 2026, marking the beginning of the three-day spiritual preparation, or triduum. Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Johanus Rao, Dean of Hassan Deanery and Parish Priest of St. Anthony’s Church, Hassan, led the opening ceremony. A son of the soil, he hoisted the flag in honour of Mother Mary and celebrated the first day’s novena Mass.
In his homily on the theme “Mary, Mother of All Saints,” Fr. Patrick encouraged the faithful to draw inspiration from the lives and examples of the saints. He urged them to emulate Mary’s faith, obedience, humility, and dedication, following her example in leading others closer to Jesus Christ.
Second Day: Trusting in God Amid Difficulties
On the second day, the Holy Mass was celebrated by Rev. Dr. Fr. Vincent Monteiro, a moral theologian and priest of the Diocese of Mysore. In his homily, he encouraged the faithful to trust in the Lord amid life’s trials and difficulties, reminding them to remain hopeful, courageous, and steadfast in their faith.
Third Day: Perseverance in Faith
On the third day, Rev. Fr. Joel Vegas, Vice-Rector of St. Joseph’s Minor Seminary, Chikmagalur, celebrated the Holy Mass and exhorted the faithful to remain steadfast in their faith, whatever challenges they might encounter.
The three days of spiritual preparation helped the parish community approach the feast with renewed faith, prayerfulness and devotion to Our Lady.
Marian Procession Draws Devotees from Different Communities
A major highlight of the celebrations was the grand evening Marian procession organized by the parishioners. Before the procession, Rev. Fr. Vijar Kumar, Parish Priest of Infant Jesus Church, Matasagara, offered prayers and blessed the statue of Mother Mary and the flag hoisted on the chariot.
The beautifully decorated chariot carrying the statue of Mother Mary was taken through the streets of Marianagar amid prayers, hymns, and expressions of devotion. People from different communities, irrespective of caste or creed, joined the procession, demonstrating the unifying power of faith and community fellowship.
Along the route, devotees welcomed the statue of Our Lady with offerings of flowers and candles, seeking her maternal intercession and heavenly blessings. The streets echoed with prayers and devotional hymns, creating an atmosphere of faith, peace, and joyful celebration.
The St. Mary’s Band Set added colour and solemnity to the procession, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The enthusiastic participation of devotees reflected their deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the spirit of unity that characterized the celebration.
Following the procession, Rev. Fr. Francis, Rector of St. Joseph’s Minor Seminary, Chikmagalur, conducted the solemn benediction and imparted the final blessings to the faithful. A colourful fireworks display brought the outdoor celebrations to a joyful conclusion.
Nearly 2,000 people participated in the novena and festal celebrations, contributing to an atmosphere of faith, fellowship and thanksgiving.
Clergy, Religious and Laity Journey Together
The Sisters of the Holy Cross from Ave Maria Convent, together with the parish youth, children and other parishioners, rendered dedicated and selfless service in organizing the celebrations. Their wholehearted cooperation, teamwork and commitment helped make the occasion spiritually enriching and memorable.
The active participation of the clergy, religious and lay faithful reflected the true meaning of synodality: walking together, listening to one another, sharing responsibilities and working in communion for the mission of the Church.
The celebration demonstrated how a parish community can become a living witness to the Gospel when its members work together in faith, mutual respect and a spirit of service. The cooperation of all sections of the parish community also highlighted the importance of lay participation and shared responsibility in the life and mission of the Church.
Journeying Together Towards the Golden Jubilee
As St. Mary’s Church, Marianagar, approaches its Golden Jubilee, the 49th Parish Foundation Day marks an important milestone in its spiritual journey. The celebration was not merely a commemoration of the parish’s history but also an opportunity to renew its commitment to the mission ahead.
Inspired by the spirit of synodality, the parish community is called to continue its journey through listening, dialogue, participation, and shared responsibility. The collaboration of the clergy, religious and lay faithful reflects the Church’s mission to build a community where every member is valued, every voice is heard, and everyone contributes to proclaiming the Gospel.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to faith, unity and devotion to Our Lady. Entrusting their journey to Mary’s maternal care, the faithful reaffirmed their dedication to Christ and to a life of love, service and Christian witness.
With hearts filled with gratitude and hope, St. Mary’s Church, Marianagar, looks forward to its Golden Jubilee in the spirit of synodality—walking together, listening together and serving together for the greater glory of God.
By Ivan D’Costa
