Mangalore Diocese News

A Feast of Devotion, Togetherness and Gratitude

Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 10 , 2024 : Following the tradition, this year's feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary was marked by the devotion and enthusiasm of the faithful. The preparations began nine days prior with novena prayers. Children were encouraged to embrace the value of charity by participating in the initiative "Nine Gifts on Nine Days for My Needy Neighbour," where they brought offerings along with flowers each day. It was heartwarming to see the little ones arriving with gifts to be shared with others.

On the feast day, devotees gathered at Infant Mary’s Convent at 7:40 AM. The ceremony commenced with Rev. Fr. Chetan Lobo blessing the new corn, followed by a procession to the church. Flowers were offered to Mother Mary, accompanied by hymns praising her graciousness.

The Mass began at 8:10 AM, led by Fr. Chetan Lobo as the main celebrant, joined by Fr. Felix Monteiro and Parish Priest Fr. Maxim D'Souza. In his homily, Fr. Chetan Lobo delivered a profoundly moving and inspirational message, emphasizing the role of Mother Mary as the Universal Mother, a symbol of love, compassion, and guidance for all of humanity. He spoke about her timeless virtues and how her maternal care extends beyond boundaries. Fr. Lobo also highlighted the critical importance of empowering the girl child, urging the congregation to recognize the inherent dignity, strength, and potential of women and girls. He encouraged families and society to foster an environment where girls are uplifted, educated, and supported, emphasizing their vital role in shaping the future. Furthermore, Fr. Lobo spoke passionately about the essence of unity, both within families and the Church community. He stressed the significance of fostering harmonious relationships built on love, respect, and understanding, calling on everyone to work towards creating a spirit of togetherness and mutual support. This unity, he explained, is the foundation of a strong and vibrant community, reflecting the very essence of the Church as a family of faith.

After the Mass, a delicious breakfast was served, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the faithful to gather and share in fellowship. The distribution of sugarcane, a traditional symbol of abundance and celebration, further enriched the festive spirit. This simple yet thoughtful gesture not only delighted the children but also brought smiles to the faces of all present, adding a sense of communal joy and togetherness. The shared meal and the distribution of sugarcane beautifully complemented the spiritual essence of the day, fostering a deeper sense of connection among the parishioners as they celebrated the feast in unity and gratitude. The Sugarcane was sponsored by Mr Louis Santos & Family, Fatima Ward. For the last 13 Years he has sponsored the Sugarcane to the entire parish community.