A milestone of Grace and a Legacy of Faith:Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo Offers Solemn Thanksgiving Jubil

By Prof. Archibald Furtado
Pics by Alphonse Mendonca
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi, 09 Feb 2025: The Milagres Cathedral in Kallianpur became a beacon of faith, joy, and gratitude as the Thanksgiving Jubilee Mass was solemnly celebrated by the Bishop of Udupi, Rt. Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo. The grandeur of the occasion was matched by the radiance of the bright afternoon sun and the enthusiasm of the faithful, who arrived from near and far as early as 3:00 PM. 

 

On Sunday, 9th February, 2025, around 3.30 pm the gigantic church bells heralded the arrival of Nuncio, Archbishop His Excellency Rev. Dr Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India the Papal representative in India, as the Rector of the Cathedral and other dignitaries present, accorded him and other guests a warm welcome to historical Milagres Church, Kallianpur.

 

 By 3:45 PM, the beautifully decorated huge pendal, adorned with colourful shamiyanas and well-arranged seating, was nearly filled to capacity, setting the stage for a spiritually uplifting celebration.

A Grand and Sacred Procession:

The ceremony commenced with a formal introduction of the liturgy and a warm welcome extended by the Rector and Vicar General of the Diocese, Msgr. Ferdinand Gonsalves.

 

At exactly 4:00 PM, the well-trained Diocesan Choir comprising rich and diverse talents across the Diocese and led by Milagres Cathedral began the soul-stirring entrance hymn, ‘Kitlen Sobhith Mandir Tuje’ , as a procession of as many as 18 Bishops and hundreds of priests, led by a brass band, marched towards the grand High Altar.

 

The occasion was further blessed by the presence of esteemed Church dignitaries, including: Archbishop His Excellency Rev. Dr Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Archbishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Peter Machado of Bangalore.

 

The main celebrant the Jubilarian, Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Diocese of Udupi.

 

As the trio ascended the specially erected altar, a wave of joy and reverence swept through the thousands of faithful gathered, eager to witness the solemn Thanksgiving Eucharist.

A Liturgy of Deep Meaning and Devotion:

The meticulously planned liturgical celebration was both meaningful and spiritually enriching. The hymn selection was deeply moving, Psalms especially the chant, ‘Tun Melkesedekachya Varga Parmanne Sasnak Yajak’, which resonated in the hearts of all present.

 

While breaking the word of God, in his well-prepared homily, Rt Rev Dr Francis Serrao, SJ, Bishop of Shimogga Diocese, eloquently reflected on the qualities of a Good Shepherd, drawing inspiration from Jesus Christ. He highlighted the life and ministry of Bishop Gerald, who earlier served in Shimogga as Bishop for 12 long years, and now in Udupi Diocese commending his unwavering faith in God and humility, and dedication to his flock.

 

As the Holy Eucharist was consecrated and communion was distributed, the congregation sang the soulful thanksgiving hymn, ‘Tuje Thain Somya Bhavarth Muzo’, which filled the Cathedral with an aura of grace and serenity.

 

Just before the ceremonial blessings Apostolic Nuncio took the occasion to convey greetings on behalf of Holy Father, Pope Francis to Jubilarian, Most Rev Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo on his 75th Birthday and Silver jubilee of Episcopal Ordination as Bishop of both Shimoga and at present Diocese of Udupi, almost 12 + years each in adjoining geographical areas however with different perspectives one in Malnad the other Coastal Karnataka.

 

Purely a service oriented man took strength from the holy Cross nurtured this Infant diocese to be modeled to imitate at regional and national level.

A Joyous Conclusion:

The celebration concluded with a ceremonial blessing, followed by the cherished hymn in honour of the Patroness, Our Lady of Milagres—‘Milar Maye, Devacha Mandira, Naman, Naman Tuka’. This beautiful composition by the former Rector late legendary Rev. Fr. Valerian Mendonca provided a perfect and reverent ending to the High Mass.

 

The cohesive ‘Diocesan Jubilee Celebration Committee’ left no stone unturned in ensuring a well-organized and spiritually fulfilling event. The flawless sound system, large TV screens for a better viewing experience, and live telecast allowed the faithful to fully immerse themselves in the proceedings. A dedicated team of volunteers worked tirelessly, ensuring comfort and order for parking, drinking water etc to the large 4000 plus gathering.

 

The Thanksgiving Jubilee Mass was not just an event; it was a heartfelt expression of faith, gratitude, and unity, making it a truly memorable and divine experience for all who attended.

 

From the entry point at NH 66, then on starting from Mount Rosary Church Santhekatte till the Milagres Cathedral, either sides of the main road were exhibiting welcoming flexes and congratulatory hoardings, banners, buntings etc covering almost two kilometres, was really a feast to the eyes.