Udupi: Bishop Dr Gerald Lobo sanctifies 3 oils, traditionally used in ceremonies

By Richard DSouza
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi, 12 Apr: The blessing of Holy Oils and Clergy Day was observed at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, here on Thursday, April 11.

 

Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi diocese solemnly concelebrated Eucharistic Celebrations along with Monsignor Dr Baptist Menezes, vicar general of diocese, Fr Stany B Lobo, chancellor, Fr Dr Lawrence C D’Souza, rector of Cathedral and vicar of Kallianpur deanery, Fr Denis D’Sa, vicar of Shirva deanery, Fr Valerian Mendonca, vicar of Udupi Episcopal city deanery, Fr Stany Tauro, vicar of Kundapur deanery, Fr Joswey Fernandes, vicar of Karkala deanery and around 70 priests.

 

Prior to the start of the Mass, the procession of priests led by Bishop proceeded towards Cathedral from Milagres Tri-Centenary Hall. The blessing of the three Holy Oils was held during the Mass at Milagres Cathedral which was usually held in diocesan Cathedral which was renovated partially. The blessing of three kinds of Sacred Oils that signify the work of the Holy Spirit and symbolize it in that oil serves to strengthen the believer in their vocation and sufferings.

 

 

In his homily, Bishop pointed out the role of priests in proclaiming the Holy Bible and to share with everybody the truth of the Gospel in which they rejoice in the Lord. Since the lip of a priest is to be modelled on the life of his Master. Christ went about preaching and teaching the word of God.

 

Since nobody can be saved who has not first believed; it is the duty of priests to proclaim the message of God to all men. In every case, priest’s role is not to teach their own wisdom but the world of God and issue an urgent invitation to all men to conversion to holiness. Evidently a priest himself already possesses a large storehouse of God’s wisdom.

 

Bishop said that priests are to share the Gospel not only with the believers but with unbelievers too. Priests are to teach in such a way that they invite people to conversion and to holiness. The first object of their preaching and teaching Gospel should be to bring sinners back to the God from whom they are estranged.

 

Fr Dr Lawrence C D’Souza thanked clergies and laities, sponsor of Holy Mass Steven and Prema Lewis of Tenkabettu ward who have celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary.

 

After the Mass, cold drinks and cake was served to all the participants from across the diocese which was donated by Steven & Prima Lewis.