Saturday, 28 December 2024 – St. Lawrence Church and Shrine In a solemn and heartfelt celebration, the parishioners of St. Lawrence Church and Shrine gathered with their infant children to commemorate the Feast of Holy Innocents and Martyrs. The mass, held at 8 a.m., was led by the main celebrant, Rev. Fr Rupesh Tauro, the warden of St Philomena College, Puttur.

During the celebration, Fr. Rupesh Tauro delivered a poignant reflection on the significance of the feast, remembering the holy infants who sacrificed their lives for Christ. He urged the faithful to pray fervently for all innocent children who have suffered and continue to face challenges in today’s world.

Following the mass, Holy water was sprinkled over the gathered faithful, with a special emphasis on the children. The parish priest, Rev. Fr. Andrew D’Souza, invoked blessings for all the children present, quoting the Gospel of Matthew 19:14, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

The ceremony concluded with a powerful moment of prayer as Rev. Fr Rupesh Tauro, Rev. Fr Andrew D’Souza, and Rev. Fr William D’Souza united in blessing the children and all the faithful

The mass concluded on a joyful note as all the children who attended, along with the Parishioners, were treated to a special distribution of cake, symbolizing the shared blessings and unity of the community.

Photography & Report: Meena Serrao Barboza