Theme of the Day: “Jesus Healed Every Kind of Disease and Illness”

August 3, 2026: The third day of the Novena in preparation for the Annual Feast of St Lawrence was prayerfully celebrated at St Lawrence Church and Shrine, Bondel. Centered on the theme, “Jesus Healed Every Kind of Disease and Illness,” the day was marked by special prayers for the sick and suffering.

The morning began with Eucharistic Adoration at 10:30 a.m., led by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest of Permanur, followed by the Holy Eucharist at 11:30 a.m.

The Holy Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, with Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest, and Rev. Fr. Rupesh Tauro of St. Antony PU College, Naravi, as concelebrants.

In his homily, Fr Andrew reflected on Jesus’ healing ministry and invited the faithful to place their complete trust in the Lord, the Divine Healer. He encouraged everyone to pray earnestly for those who are sick in body, mind, and spirit, reminding them that Christ’s healing love brings hope, strength, and new life to all who seek Him with faith.

The liturgy for the morning celebration was conducted by the parishioners of Vorkady and Bondel, while the Cordel Parish Choir prayerfully animated the Eucharistic celebration. Following the morning Mass, a fellowship meal was served to the large gathering of devotees.

#Evening Mass

The evening service commenced with Eucharistic Adoration at 5:30 p.m., led by Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Rector of St Lawrence Shrine, followed by the Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr Francis Crasta, Parish Priest of Vorkady. He was joined by Rev. Fr Basil Vas; Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; and Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest, as concelebrants.

In his homily, Fr Francis reflected on the words, “By His wounds, we are healed.” He said that many are wounded by sickness, mental struggles, and broken relationships. Through the grace and precious Blood of Jesus, we receive healing and strength. He encouraged everyone to have faith and trust in the healing power of Christ.

The liturgy for the evening celebration was conducted by the parishioners of Derebail, Valencia, and Bondel, while the Valencia Kids Choir beautifully led the singing, adding prayerful devotion and spiritual vibrancy to the celebration.

During both the morning and evening services, the faithful received blessings through the sprinkling of holy water and anointing with holy oil, seeking God’s healing grace and protection.

Special prayers were offered for all sick and suffering brothers and sisters, invoking the powerful intercession of St Lawrence for healing, comfort, strength, and renewed hope.

The faithful continued to participate in large numbers, united in prayer and devotion and inspired by the spirit of St Lawrence as they journeyed through the Novena in preparation for the Annual Feast.

Report :Meena Serrao Barboza

Photography Stanley Bantwal.