Vespers on the Eve of the Annual Parish Feast at Mount Rosary Church, Santhekatte, Kallianpur

By Prof P. Archibald Furtado
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi, 07 Jan 2025: As the sun gently set into the Arabian Sea on the evening of Tuesday, 7th January 2025, Mount Rosary Church witnessed a sea of faithful gather in joyous devotion for the Vespers, the highlight of the eve of the Annual Parish Feast. At 6:30 PM, onwards the vibrant congregation assembled in the Church and began a solemn yet colourful procession towards the beautifully adorned veranda of Mount Rosary English Medium High School.

 

There, the serene and radiant statue of the parish’s Patroness, ‘Our Lady of the Holy Rosary’, waited amidst a striking display of flowers and lights. At 6.45 pm, the faithful, young and old, moved in prayerful unison, reflecting gratitude for blessings received in 2024 and seeking the intercession of the ‘Blessed Mother’ for continued grace and guidance in the year ahead.

 

The procession, with the brass band troupe with harmonious and catchy tunes, and was led by Rev. Dr. Jencil Alva, radiated spiritual fervour, as the congregation carried candles that illuminated the evening. The melodious Church Choir led by Mrs Jovita Fernandes, set the tone, singing the entrance hymn ‘Yeya, Yeya Yeya, Tumhi sagllin’ in perfect harmony as the main celebrant, joined by numerous, about 30  guest priests, ascended the altar adorned with intricate decorations.

 

The prayers, including the best-chosen psalms, uplifted the collective spirit of the parish community, instilling a profound sense of unity and devotion. The homily delivered by the celebrant Rev Dr Jencil Alva, touched hearts deeply, emphasizing the transformative power of the Holy Bible, which offers divine answers to the challenges of life and living. “Let us give primary and importance to Holy Scriptures in our daily life as today most of us start the day with mobile than Bible…”

 

 

During the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, prayers of the faithful were fervently raised, seeking both spiritual and material blessings for the parishioners and the Church. The solemn hour of Vespers concluded at 8:00 PM, leaving the congregation spiritually enriched.

 

Rev. Dr. Roque D’Souza, the parish priest, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all involved, the retired arch-bishop of Bhopal, Rev Dr Leo Cornelio, Vicar General Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves all priests of the varado and guest priests, also acknowledged the Pirjenth family of Jacintha Liliya Saldanha, St. Joseph Ward for their outstanding efforts in organizing and beautifying the Church and its surroundings.

 

The evening celebrations extended beyond the prayers, with vibrant stalls set up by ICYM, YCS, and other groups offering a variety of entertainment and delicacies. Games, Lucky dip draws, ice creams, and attractions like Housie…. added a festive charm to the night. Parishioners and visitors engaged in lively interactions, exploring stalls featuring religious items, sweets, calendars, and much more, further strengthening the bonds of community. The Church was beautifully decorated with attractive lightings, which celebrated decennial year last Sunday 5th January, with all pomp and splendour.

 

‘Vespers of 2025’ stood as a testament to the devotion, unity, and collaborative spirit of Mount Rosary Church. With record attendance and heartfelt participation, the evening left an indelible mark on the hearts of all present, with fireworks, paving the way for the grand celebration of the Festal Mass the following day, Wednesday, 8th January, scheduled at 10:30 AM.

 

This sacred and vibrant celebration truly reflected the faith, dedication, and togetherness of the Mount Rosary Church family, making it an unforgettable evening.