The annual feast of our lady of Vailankanni Shrine, Kalmady was celebrated with devotional fervour on Tuesday, August 15th 2023.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of the diocese of Udupi was the Main Celebrant at the festal Eucharistic celebration.
In his homily Bishop Lobo said "Today Mother Mary is in heavenly abode but her heart still lives with mankind. Whoever seeks her intercession, never returns empty handed. Mother Mary received the Word of God in her womb first then in her heart. She showed her obedience to the word of God in word and deed. Today Mother Mary invites us to do the same. She became the wife of a carpenter. She earned her living by doing household chores. Her life was an open book. She did not understand many things, but she prayed on that and tried to understand the almighty's plans. As a mother she received the gift of the Almighty. The son of God became her son. She gave her utmost for the development and upbringing of the child and also helped him to reach his destiny. She did all the things like a worldly mother."
Rev. Fr Baptist Menezes, rector, our lady of Vailankanni Shrine, Kalmady thanked everyone who supported in organising the Festal celebrations.
Donors and sponsors were honoured with blessed candles on the occasion by the bishop.
Special prayers were offered on the occasion for sufficient rains.
Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, vicar general, diocese of Udupi Fr Roshan Dsouza, Chancellor, Fr Charles Menezes, dean of Udupi Deanery and other priests from the diocese were present during the Eucharistic celebration.
More than four thousand of devotees and parishioners participated in the Festal Eucharistic celebration and received the grace of our lady of Vailankanni. Throughout the day, the shrine was bustling with activity as devotees engaged in various religious practices, including offering prayers, lighting candles, and participating in Masses which were held at 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm.
Fellowship meal was arranged for all the devotees.