Theme of the Feast: “A life of prayer is a gift of God .”

Message of the Feast: If you believe you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer (Matthew 21:22)

At the annual feast of Bondel St Lawrence church & Shrine the celebration was led by the Most Rev. Dr. Wilfred Gregory Moras, Coadjutor Bishop of Jhansi. Most Rev. Dr. Wilfred Gregory Moras celebrated the Holy Eucharist on the eve of the Annual Feast of the Shrine of St. Lawrence in Bondel on Saturday, 10 August 2024 at 10.30.a.m .A significant number of pilgrims and devotees filled every available space in the shrine to partake in the grand celebration

Most Rev. Dr Wilfred Gregory Moras, Coadjutor Bishop of Jhansi began the celebration saying ” A Life of Prayer is a gift of God “

The solemnity of the Holy Mass was profoundly enhanced by the inspiring homily delivered by Coadjutor Bishop Moras emphasized the profound message of St. Teresa of Avila described prayer as an intimate conversation with God, emphasizing that it is a way to deepen one’s relationship with Him. She believed that three important virtues are essential for prayer: humility, detachment, and love for others, “dying to oneself for others is real prayer” is vividly illustrated by the example of Father Abraham. Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac, as commanded by God. Similarly, Abraham’s intercession for the people of Sodom highlights his deep compassion and commitment to others.

Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves Principal St Lawrence Medium Eng. School, Rev Fr William D’Souza Asst Priest, Rev Fr Andrew D’Souza and other various priests from city Deanery celebrated the mass.

The melodious choir was from Bondel under the leadership of Dr Suraj.

Rev Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest of St Lawrence shrine felicitated the newly Coadjutor Bishop with a beautiful shawl, flower bouquet and a memento, he extended his heartfelt thanks to the Bishop, the priests who celebrated, and all who participated in the Mass.

Later in the noon distinguished group visited the shrine among them were Newly-elected MLC Mr Ivan D’Souza ,Mr Joachim Stany Alvares , president of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy

During their visit, they had the opportunity to meet with the Coadjutor Bishop of Jhansi, Most Rev. Dr. Wilfred Gregory Moras who was present at the shrine, along with the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Andrew. The convener of the shrine, Mr. Prakash Pinto, and members of the shrine committee were also in attendance, welcoming the guests with warmth and hospitality.

More pics click this page :https://www.facebook.com/bondelchurch