Bondel, Dec 28: In a deeply prayerful atmosphere, St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, reverently observed the Feast of the Holy Innocents, continuing its cherished tradition of invoking God’s abundant blessings upon children, especially infants. Celebrated on the third day of Christmas, the feast commemorates the innocent children who sacrificed their lives at the hands of King Herod, bearing silent witness to Christ, the newborn King of Peace and Hope.

Families, carrying their little ones in faith and trust, gathered at the shrine to seek God’s loving protection and the precious gift of children. The celebration began with a solemn Eucharistic mass led by Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, inviting the faithful to place their families and future generations before the Lord. He later presided over the Holy Eucharist and, through a spirit-filled homily, reflected on the sacredness of innocent life and the divine responsibility entrusted to parents to nurture their children in faith, love, and prayer.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza blessed all the children with holy water and offered heartfelt prayers over them and their parents, invoking God’s safeguarding presence, grace, and guidance upon their lives. The moment served as a powerful reminder of God’s unfailing care and His promise to walk with families in every season of life.

The observance beautifully reaffirmed the Shrine’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of life and recognizing children as priceless gifts from God, entrusted to the loving care of families and the faith community.

Report & Photography: Meena Serrao Barboza