The Grand Hore Kanike Procession at St. Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, served as a vibrant prelude to the church’s centenary celebrations. held today, the event radiated devotion, unity, and gratitude, drawing hundreds of parishioners and well-wishers.

The program commenced at 4:00 p.m. at Mount Carmel Central School, Maryhill, with a solemn prayer and the Word of God delivered by Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, setting the tone for the celebration. Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the Parish Priest, warmly welcomed the gathering, embracing the spirit of togetherness and gratitude.

Dignitaries and Honors The chief guest, Mr. Inayat Ali, General Secretary of the Karnataka Congress Committee, was honored with a shawl and flower bouquet by Rev. Fr. William D’Souza, Assistant Parish Priest, symbolizing respect and hospitality. Other dignitaries received similar gestures: V. Rev. Fr James D’Souza (Vicar Forane) was welcomed by Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves. Rev. Fr Arul (Superior, Formation House – Betharram) was honored by Mr. John D’Silva, PPC Vice President. Sr. Melissa AC (Principal, MCCS) was welcomed by Mr. Prakash Pinto, Shrine Committee Convener. Sr. Leela (Superior, Presentation Convent) received honors from Mr. Santosh Misquith, PPC Secretary. Mr. M.G. Hegde (Social Activist & Politician) and several priests, including Rev. Fr Paul Sebastian D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Vincent Saldanha, Rev. Fr Vijay Victor D’Souza, Rev. Fr Ivan Cordeiro, and Rev. Fr Apoline Neris, were welcomed by Rev. Fr William D’Souza.

Chief Guest Mr. Inayat Ali in his Address commended the leadership of Rev. Fr. Andrew and extended heartfelt congratulations for the centenary celebration. Reflecting on his personal connection to Christian education, he remarked, “I studied in a convent school, and the Christian community has established numerous educational institutions that greatly benefit and support many people.” He also generously contributed to the centenary food expenses as a gesture of support.

Procession Highlights the blessing of the Hore Kanike offerings, brought by parishioners, neighboring communities, and well-wishers, was a key highlight. Rev. Fr. Andrew sprinkled holy water over the offerings, and the procession was inaugurated with a challan by V. Rev. Fr James and Mr. Inayat Ali. The event concluded at St. Lawrence Church, where the statue of St. Lawrence was placed in the shrine, set to be formally inaugurated on the 18th Nov. during the centenary celebrations. The procession reflected the community’s deep faith and gratitude as diverse groups contributed generously.

Rev.Fr William D’Souza, who compered the event, extended a heartfelt vote of thanks, recognizing the contributions of Mr. Stephen D’Silva, Mr. Jason Fernandes, the Cultural Committee Members, Parish Council members, Media representatives, Photographers, and the police for their support. This procession beautifully highlighted the enduring spirit of togetherness, devotion, and faith as the community prepares to celebrate 100 years of service and spirituality at St. Lawrence Church & Shrine.

Photography: Stanley Bantwal

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza

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