Bishop Visit & Conferring the Sacrament of Confirmation

Bishop Visit & Conferring the Sacrament of Confirmation Back

BISHOP'S VISITATION

It is a tradition that has been practiced for years, where the bishop of a diocese visits a parish once in couple of years in order to assess and appreciate it’s the growth. The Bishop of Mangalore diocese Most Rev Aloysius Paul D’Souza gave a pastoral visit to Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail on the 27th of May, 2017.

The parishioners assembled at the church premise at 3.30 P.M on the same day in order to welcome the Bishop. The Bishop was given a warm floral welcome by the Parish Priest Rev.Fr. Austin Peres, the Vice-President Mr.Edward Coelho, the Secretary Mrs.Lizzie Fernandes and the Resident Priest Fr. Gratian Alvares. Following this was a short prayer service led by the Bishop, Fr.Austin Peres and Fr.Gratian Alvares. The Bishop then concluded by offering special prayers for the church, the Pope and for the parishioners.

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION / MASS

Confirmation is a catholic sacrament of mature Christian, commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts. It is the final sacrament of initiation and it is an excellent time for a young catholic to grow in faith.
A group of 65 boys and girls received their confirmation on the 27th of April 2017 at Most Holy Redeemer Church. Our beloved Bishop Rt. Reverend Aloysius Paul D’Souza addressed the youth who were all elegantly dressed and well prepared for receiving the Holy Spirit in their hearts forever. The Bishop asked few catechism questions pertaining to catholic faith to the children from class 1st to 3rd, 4th to 7th, 8th to 10th and finally to the youth.
The youth who had been preparing for this sacrament for almost a month gave prompt answers and won for themselves words of appreciation by the Bishop.
The Eucharistic celebration then began with a professional entrance hymn sung by our very own youth choir. The procession was led by the youngster followed by Altar boys, Priests and Bishop. A wonderful homily was given by our Bishop. The Bishop then confirmed the 65 youngsters individually. Finally at the end of the mass Bishop gave away prizes to the children and youth who gave prompt answers. The Bishop then lauded the Parish priest and Derebail parish.

Report by: Lynsha Lobo Martis / Loretta Anthony
Pictures: Simon Pereira, Derebail [Simon Digitals]