Karkala, Jan 20: Fr George D'Souza from St Lawrence Church, Attur said that the historically renowned annual festival of the church will be held from January 25 to 29 this year.
He noted that from centuries people from various parts of the state from different religions have made it a practice to visit this church during the annual festivities and gain spiritual elation, psychological satisfaction and memorable experience.
He added at the press conference held at the office of the church on Sunday January 18 that the celebrations will begin with the holy Eucharist at 7.30 am on Sunday January 25, which will be celebrated as ‘Brotherhood Sunday’. He also said that on this occasion, the sacrament will be taken in a procession.
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He informed that on January 26, a holy Eucharist exclusively meant for children is being arranged at 10 am, while the holy Eucharist at 3.30 pm that day will be dedicated for the sick. He explained that a total of 39 holy masses will be performed during the festival in Konkani, Kannada, Malayalam, and English languages. He also said that Bishops from Mangaluru, Beltangady, Udupi and Shimoga will be coming here as chief celebrants for holy mass.
Fr George informed that for the safety of the visiting pilgrims, 48 closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) have been installed at both the old church and the new premises. A decision has also been taken to fix 16 CCTV cameras at the area where the festival and fair will be held.
He added that this time, additional space measuring about 45,000 square feet have been provided on the east side of the church by clearing the mud and levelling land. This will help the pilgrims to perform their vows and light candles without encountering problem of space.
“On the west side of the church, new premises have been built by the side of the statue of the saint, where Catholics will be able to make confessions. Facility to perform vows like offerings in the form of things has been provided in the east side. 40 toilets have been built including some in the form of commodes for disabled and senior citizens. As in the past, unauthorized sale of candles in the premises of the church, and begging have been prohibited. The items that will be received in the form of fulfilment of vows during the festival will be distributed among the beggars on January 30 at 12 pm. On that occasion, food will also be served to them”, he stated.
The vice-president of the parish council, Richard Pinto, secretary, Santosh D'Silva, former secretary John D'Souza, Joseph D'Souza, and several others were present at the press conference.
