Mangalore Diocese News

News report : Mrs Ivy Serrao
Photos : Vian ,Jevin and Pius D’Souza

Moodbidri, September 8, 2024 – The Corpus Christi Church here celebrated the Nativity of Blessed Mother Mary with great fervor, joy, and devotion. The day’s events began with a lively procession from Navami Mart at 7:30 a.m., led by a children's band, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere.

Mr. Norbert Martis eloquently explained the significance of the Nativity in Kannada, ensuring that all attendees grasped the importance of the celebration. Before the procession, Reverend Fr. Onil D’Souza and Fr. Ivan D’Souza blessed the newly harvested paddy grains, symbolizing the abundance and blessings associated with Mother Mary’s birth.

The Infant Mary statue, carried reverently through the streets, was the center of attention as parishioners joined the procession, singing hymns dedicated to Mother Mary, a moving expression of devotion. The procession concluded at the church, where young children offered flowers to the Infant Mary in a touching tribute.

A solemn Holy Mass followed, with Rev. Fr. Ivan D’Souza, professor at St. Joseph’s Inter-Diocesan Seminary, Jeppu, as the main celebrant, and Rev. Fr. Onil D’Souza as co-celebrant. In his homily, Fr. Ivan urged the faithful not only to pray to Mother Mary but also to pray like her, emulating her virtues and striving to radiate her grace.

The Corpus Christi Church choir led the congregation in harmonious hymns throughout the Mass. Rev. Fr. Onil D’Souza thanked the sponsors, donors, and all who contributed to the success of the feast.

At the conclusion of the Mass, parishioners received blessed paddy and sugarcane, symbolizing spiritual and material blessings. The celebration fostered a sense of unity, devotion, and community, affirming the values exemplified by Mother Mary.