By Fr. Richard D’Souza
Sep 21 : Mangalore Diocese clergy gathering with the new Bishop Most Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha was held on 20 September at Milagress Jubilee Hall.
This is the official meeting of the Bishop with his priests and seminarians of the diocese of Mangalore.
The new bishop was felicitated by the diocesan clergy by honoring with the shawl and a bouquet of flowers. The choir headed by Fr Ronald Serrao sang the felicitation song.
Bishop addressed the clergy explained the meaning of his Court of arms, the vision and focus of his Episcopate. He requested all priests to work together for good of the diocese.
He thanked the outgoing Bishop Most Rev Dr Aloysius Paul D Souza and Vicar General Msgr Denis Moras Prabhu for their services to the diocese.
All priests of the diocese lighted their candles from the new bishop and promised their obedience.
Most Rev Aloysius Paul D Souza Bishop emeritus was felicitated by the new bishop and clergy for his 22 years of service as the Bishop of Mangalore Diocese. In reply to the honor bishop shared his experiences and entrusted clergy of the diocese in the hands of new bishop.
New Bishop also felicitated Msgr Denis Moras Prabhu , the outgoing Vicar General of the diocese. Vicar general in reply shared a few of his experiences and some of his news gathering methods and sources. He also wished well to Most Rev Dr Peter Paul the new bishop of Mangalore.
Fr Joseph Martis Rector St Joseph Seminary expressed the words of gratitude to Bishop Emiritus Most Rev Dr Aloysius Paul D Souza, Fr J B Saldanha Parish Priest Permannur expressed the words of felicitation to Msgr Denis Moras the outgoing Vicar General, Fr Rajesh Rosario Professor St Joseph Seminary lead the prayer, Fr Vincent Monthiero Parish Priest of Bendoor welcomed the gathering, Fr Santhosh Rodrigues Parish Priest of Hospet compered the programme. Fr Valerian D Souza Parish Priest of Milagres and the host proposed vote of thanks.