Theme of the Day: “Through Their Generosity and Service, the Church Is Strengthened.”

The ninth and final day of the Novena in preparation for the Annual Feast of St Lawrence was observed with profound faith and devotion at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, centred on the theme, “Through Their Generosity and Service, the Church Is Strengthened.”

The evening celebration commenced with Eucharistic Adoration at 5:30 p.m., offering the faithful a sacred time of prayer and silent communion with the Lord, followed by the Holy Mass at 6:00 p.m., presided over by Most Rev. Dr Ignatius D’Souza Bishop of Bareilly.Concelebrating the Holy Eucharist were Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Parish Priest and Shrine Rector of Bondel; Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; and Rev. Fr. George, OFM Cap. The Eucharistic celebration became a grace-filled moment of faith, prayer and spiritual renewal for all gathered in devotion to St. Lawrence.

In his homily, Bishop Ignatius D’Souza reminded the faithful that God speaks to us in moments of silence, as He spoke to Elijah through the gentle whisper at Horeb. He encouraged us to recognize Jesus who comes to us in our fears and storms, and to look towards Him with faith, as the disciples did. Reflecting on Tabor, he invited us to experience God’s grace and presence. Like Peter, we are called to leave the boat, step out in faith, and walk towards Jesus, trusting in His love and presence.

The evening liturgy was conducted by the parishioners of Milagres, Cascia, and Bondel, while the Milagres Kids Choir beautifully enriched the Eucharistic celebration through their prayerful hymns.

Special prayers were offered for all donors and benefactors, asking God to bless them abundantly for their generosity, reward their selfless service, and continue to strengthen them in faith and charity.

Photography Stanley Bantwal

Report Meena Serrao Barboza