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Mangaluru: ’Hore Kanike’ procession & feast flag hoisting at Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte

Mangaluru, Jan 04: Ahead of the annual feast of Infant Jesus (Jan 14 & 15) at Bikarnakatte, ‘Hore Kanike’ (offertory procession) witnessing scores of devotees was held on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

After having participated in a prayer service held by Rev. Fr Lancy Lewis at the Kaikamba-Bikarnakatte Grounds, Rev. Fr. Charles Serrao flagged off the procession from Kaikamba to the Infant Jesus Shrine. Many faithful participated in the colorful offertory procession, which was made up of offertory materials provided by different community contributors to be used for the noon meals that will be served on all the novena days.

Rev Fr Rovel D Souza welcomed the gathering. Rev Fr James D’Souza, Vicar-Forein, led the prayer service ahead of flag hoisting. Shri N Shashikumar IPS, Police Commissioner of Mangalore, hoisted the flag and gave an official node to the novenas and feast of Infant Jesus. Addressing the gathering the commissioner said, “The Carmel hill of Mangalore where Infant Jesus Shrine exists has become a source of peace and serenity. The Christian community at large maintains an ecosystem of peace and brotherhood.” He wished all gathered a pleasant year ahead with the blessings of Infant Jesus.

A few dignitaries and well-wishers were felicitated and acknowledged their service. Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Shri Ivan D Souza (Former MLC), Shri Naveen D Souza (MCC Opposition Leader), Smt Kavya Nataraj Alva (Shivabagh Corporator), Shri Kishore Kottari, (Padavu central Corporator), Shri Bhasskar K, (Padavu east corporator), Shri Keshava, (Maroli corporator), Shri A. C. Vinayaraj, (Ashokanagara corporator), Shri Lancelot Pinto, (Bejai corporator) Shri Ramesh Kandettu (Nominated corporator), Rev. Fr. Charles Serrao (Superior, St. Joseph’s Monastery) and Rev Fr. Rovel D Souza (Shrine Director).

Fr Rovel thanked the gathering assuring prayers for all devotees. Fr Stephen Pereira and Fr Ryan Pinto arranged and compered the whole programme.

“They returned by another route” is the main theme of the year for reflection, and it encourages people to cling to the biblical way rather than the ways of the world. The Novena Masses start on January 5 and last for nine days. There will be a total of nine masses held each day, attended by believers. The annual feast will be held on January 14 and 15, 2023.