Parish Feast 2026 Back

Parish Feast 2026

The parishioners of Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail celebrated their Parish Feast on 1st November 2026. The Mass was held at 9:00 a.m with Rev. Fr. Victor George D’Souza, the Chancellor of the Diocese and head of the Chair in Christianity at Mangalore University.

The solemn Eucharistic celebration led by Rev. Fr. Victor, joined at the altar by Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris, Associate Parish Priest and thirteen visiting priests who concelebrated the Mass.

In his homily, Fr. Victor began by exploring the dual nature of the word "saint," reflecting on its true meaning in our daily concrete lives rather than viewing it as an impossible ideal. Weaving the message of the first reading into his sermon, he emphasized the profound significance of this day both for the communion of saints and specially for our Derebail parish. He reminded the congregation that Jesus actively calls each of us to holiness, stressing that saints are not simply born holy, rather, they are formed through a lifelong journey of transformation. To illustrate this, he pointed out some examples, such as, Saint Peter, who overcame his human failings, symbolized by his threefold denial and subsequent restoration, Saint Paul and Saint Augustine, all of whom underwent profound reform and turned their lives toward God. 
Concluding with a call to action, the priest noted that the twin pillars of a saint's journey are prayer and service, urging everyone in the parish to reform their hearts and follow this path to holiness.

The solemn singing of the parish choir added to the devotion to the entire liturgy, enhancing the festive spirit.

Before the recessional hymn, Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis extended his heartfelt festal greetings to all parishioners. He expressed gratitude to everyone who has dedicated their time, talent, and service to the Church throughout the year. Mudhom candles were distributed to all those who contributed towards the Parish Feast expenses.

After the concluding hymn, the parishioners exchanged festal greetings and got into the rhythm of the celebratory brass band. The various stalls in the church premises added to the festive mood.

Report by:Roshan Fernandes
Pictures:Portia Furtado