Thousands Unite for Faith: Infant Jesus Festal Mass Lights Up Mangalore

Fr Ivan Dsouza OCD / 2 months

2 min read

Report & Pics: Carmel Kiran Media

The first day of the Infant Jesus Feast unfolded as a spiritually enriching celebration, marked by vibrant liturgical expressions and profound reflection on the theme “Called to Carmel, to the Wedding Feast of the Lamb.”

Six Holy Masses were celebrated in Konkani, English, and Kannada, drawing devotees from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, united in their devotion to the Infant Jesus. Each Eucharistic celebration reflected the Carmelite spirituality of call, communion, and transformation.

The day commenced at 6:00 a.m. with the inaugural Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, OCD, Shrine Director. The homily, delivered by Rev. Fr. Rudolf D’Souza, OCD, set the spiritual tone for the feast. His vibrant and thought-provoking sermon invited the faithful to reflect on their call to Carmel and their journey towards the eternal wedding feast with Christ.

The 10:30 a.m. Solemn Masswas presided over byMost Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore. The homily was preached byRev. Fr. Jocy Siddakatte, OCD, who beautifully unfolded the theme “Called to Carmel, to the Wedding Feast of the Lamb” in the light of the teachings of St. John of the Cross, inspiring the congregation to embrace a life of deeper surrender and divine union.

In the afternoon, devotees were served a communal meal, fostering fellowship and reflecting the spirit of sharing and care that lies at the heart of Carmelite tradition.

The day concluded with a solemn Konkani Mass in the evening, presided over byRt. Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi. The prayerful liturgy offered a deeply moving experience, uniting the faithful in worship and thanksgiving.

Overall, Feast Day One was imbued with spiritual vitality and a profound sense of unity. The faithful returned home with renewed hope, strengthened faith, and hearts filled with love—grateful for a day that not only celebrated devotion but also reaffirmed the Shrine’s mission to uplift and nurture the community in faith.