TEAM HERALD
bureau@herald-goa.com
BELGAUM: Goan settlers from Aldona and other parts of Goa, who are now residing at Bokmur village, about 12 kms from Belgaum, observed the feast of Mount Mary on Monday.
Bishop of Belgaum Peter Machado inaugurated the renovated chapel of Mount Carmel, devoted to Mother Mary.
Bishop Machado, who also presided over the Eucharistic celebrations, exhorted the faithful to strengthen the faith that was brought by their ancestors from Goa.
Set amidst picturesque hillocks, the Bokmur chapel is gaining popularity as a shrine. Goan priest, late Fr Gabriel Lobo, who hailed from Aldona, had constructed this chapel two decades ago to cater to the spiritual needs of the villagers.
“It is important to consolidate the faith and spirituality your ancestors brought here several years ago from Goa. I specially thank the gift of late Fr Gabriel Lobo, whose sacrifices and endeavour will be remembered forever by us. While the faithful preserved the faith and Konkani language, many priests too have rendered yeoman service, hence we should always strive towards promoting faith and spirituality,” Bishop Machado said in his homily.
Continuing their age-old tradition, parishioners from Bokmur and neighbouring villages took part in a procession of Mother Mary around the village. Monsignor Fr Lucio Mascarenhas, Parish priest Fr Nelson Pinto, Fr Thomas Lobo, Fr Alex D’Cruz and other priests, nuns and lay faithful were present.
