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Third-Day of Novena in Anticipation of Annual Relic Feast of St Anthony at Milagres.

MANGALURU, FEB 8: The St Anthony Shrine at Milagres Church in Mangaluru observed the third day of the novena preceding the annual relic feast of St Anthony of Padua on February 8, 2025.

Rev. Fr Robin Santhumayor, Asst. parish priest of Milagres, presided over the Eucharistic Mass, joined by Rev. Fr J.B. Crasta, Director of St Anthony Charitable Institutions in Jeppu, and Rev. Fr Avinash Pais, Assistant Director of the ashram.

Fr Robin preached on the theme, “Love for the Word of God Enables Us to Journey as Pilgrims of Hope.” He emphasized that love for the Word of God transforms lives and leads to success when acted upon with faith. Drawing from the miraculous catch of fish (Luke 5:1-11), he highlighted how Peter, despite failing all night, obeyed Jesus' instruction and witnessed an abundant blessing.

Fr Robin said, “Our journey as Pilgrims of Hope requires trust in God’s Word, even in uncertainty. The Word guides, strengthens, and renews us, enabling us to move forward in faith.” Fr Robin urged the faithful to immerse themselves in Scripture, trust in God’s promises, and experience the fruitfulness of obedience.

Post-Mass, Fr Avinash led the novena, specifically remembering those serving humanity and those self-employed. The Children Choir from Milagres added a melodious dimension to the expressions of gratitude.

Active participation marked the third day of the ongoing novena, set to continue until February 15, 2025. The communal spirit was further heightened as attendees were treated to the sweet dish, Payasam.

The highlight of the upcoming festivities:

The main celebrant for the main festive Holy Mass on February 15, 2025, at 6 pm at Milagres Church Grounds will be Most Rev. Dr Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. The theme for the feast is “ in the Footsteps of St Anthony,
Embrace the Journey as Pilgrims of Hope”

On the Feast Day, February 15, Mass in Konkani is scheduled at 6 and 9.30 am at St Anthony Shram Jeppu. The anticipation builds for a day of spiritual significance and community celebration.

NOVENA: The novena is a preparatory event leading up to the relic feast of St Anthony of Padua.