Preparations for St. Anthony of Padua Relic Feast in Mangaluru Commence with Festive Flag Hoisting

Mangaluru, Feb 11, 2025 – The preparations for the Relic Feast of St. Anthony of Padua at St. Anthony Ashram, Jeppu, commenced with great devotion and enthusiasm on February 6, 2025. The festivities began with the ceremonial flag hoisting at Our Lady of Miracles Church, Milagres.

Very Rev. Msgr. Maxim L. Noronha, Vicar General of the Diocese of Mangalore, hoisted the festival flag in the presence of hundreds of faithful, setting the spiritual tone for the upcoming celebrations. Following the flag hoisting, devotees participated in the inaugural Mass, concelebrated by Rev. Fr. J. B. Crasta, Director of St. Anthony Charitable Institutions; Rev. Fr. Gilbert D'Souza, Spiritual Director; and Rev. Fr. Avinash Pais, Assistant Director.

During the Mass, which was dedicated to prayers for families, Msgr. Noronha delivered a heartfelt sermon on hope as a guiding force in overcoming life's challenges. He emphasized the importance of hope in leading a meaningful life and reminded the faithful of Jesus' call not to despair but to trust in His promise of eternal life.

Reflecting on the struggles of daily life that often lead people to lose hope, Msgr. Noronha urged devotees to turn to prayer in moments of difficulty, drawing attention to how Jesus Himself prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane and taught His disciples the importance of prayer. He explained that prayer strengthens us as pilgrims, enabling us to walk with hope towards eternal bliss. He further stressed that family prayer unites and fortifies families, helping them remain resilient during times of hardship.

 The novenas, a time of spiritual preparation, will continue until February 14, 2025. The grand celebration of the Relic Feast of St. Anthony will take place on February 15, 2025. The feast Mass will be celebrated at 6:00 PM at Milagres Church Grounds, with Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, presiding as the chief celebrant. Additionally, Konkani Masses will be held at 6:00 AM and 9:30 AM at St. Anthony Ashram, Jeppu, ensuring that devotees have multiple opportunities to participate in the sacred observance.

This year’s feast follows the theme:

"Walk in the Footsteps of St. Anthony, Embrace the Journey as Pilgrims of Hope."

The celebrations for the feast are expected to draw thousands of devotees, reflecting the deep-rooted reverence for St. Anthony and the significance of the Relic Feast in the region.

Report & Photos: Canara Communication Centre, Mangalore