Report & Pics: Carmel Kiran Media

In preparation for the forthcoming Novena and Annual Feast of the Infant Jesus, a Hore Kanike (votive offering) procession was held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from Cordel Church to the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, with the participation of numerous faithful.

The votive offerings were blessed by Rev. Fr. Vijay Monteiro, Assistant Parish Priest of Cordel Church, and the procession was flagged off by Mrs. Ruth Castelino, Vice President of Cordel Church. On reaching the shrine, Rev. Fr. Melwyn D’Cunha, Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery, and Rev. Fr. Stephen Pereira, Shrine Director, thanked the gathering and assured prayers for all devotees.

As part of the celebrations, the “Sahaballve” programme promoting harmonious living was held. The event was graced by Mr. Muneer Katipalla, social activist; Mrs. Shalet Pinto, Chairperson, Karnataka Eco-Tourism Development Board; and Mr. Dinesh Hegde of Ulepady, Advocate and Human Rights activist. Emphasising fraternity, Mr. Muneer Katipalla urged people to value neighbourhood harmony over divisive narratives.

The programme was attended by Rev. Fr. Praveen Martis, Vice Chancellor of St. Aloysius Deemed to be University; Sr. Reena D’Souza, Superior, Santa Cruz Convent, Kulshekar; and corporators Mr. Keshav and Mr. Naveen. Participants in the procession were honoured.

Rev. Fr. Praveen Martis later blessed the flag and formally inaugurated the Novena and Annual Feast. The theme for the year, “Called to Carmel, to the Wedding Feast of the Lamb,” draws inspiration from St. John of the Cross, marking the 300th year of his sainthood and 100 years as Doctor of the Church.

The Novena Masses will be held from January 5 to 13, followed by the Annual Feast on January 14 and 15, 2026.