The second day of the novena in honour of St Lawrence brought the faithful together at St Lawrence Church, Bondel.
Mangaluru, August 2, 2024: Centering on the profound theme of the 2nd day, “Praying constantly is a base of hope.”
At 5.30 p.m., the devotees gathered for adoration, which was then followed by a solemn mass. The mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Cyril Lobo, Director of the Bible & Liturgy Center, Udupi Diocese, who served as the main celebrant. Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest, and Rev. Fr William D’Souza, assistant . parish priest, were concelebrants.
Rev. Fr. Cyril Lobo, during his homily, called on the devotees of St Lawrence to embrace the theme of the day, reflecting on how a new family can draw inspiration from the biblical passage of 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, which encourages us to “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances.” The passage emphasizes the importance of focusing not on worldly desires but on cultivating a deep trust and connection with God. By understanding this, the family can embrace the significance of unconditional prayer—a personal conversation with God that is free of conditions or expectations. This approach to prayer fosters a spiritual foundation of hope and strengthens the family’s bond through constant, heartfelt prayer.
The mass featured a melodious choir from St Anthony’s Church, Kulur.
During the mass and novena Special prayers were offered to all the elderly members of the community.
Photography: Stany Bantwal
Report: Meena Serrao Barboza
