Report by Fr Anil Fernandes, Photos by SJS
MANGALURU, MARCH 19: The Solemnity of St Joseph, chaste spouse of Blessed Virgin Mary and foster father of Jesus was celebrated with the presence of all stakeholders of the seminary on Saturday 19, 2022 at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu Mangalore.
Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore celebrated the solemn Eucharistic Mass. In his introduction to the mass, Bishop Peter Paul said, “St Joseph is silent and sleeping in the Gospel narratives, yet he is awake to answer our prayers and keeps us close to his heart.” The bishop invited the congregation to learn from the life of St Joseph, the art of discerning the will of God amidst the busy and dormant state of our life.
Most Rev. Dr Alsoyius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus, Very Rev. Vincent Monteiro, dean of the Episcopal City Deanery, Very Rev. Fr Joseph Martis, Dean of Philosophy, Rev. Fr Joseph Macarenhas, Parish Priest of Kelarai parish, priests from the city parishes and monasteries, and religious nuns, benefactors, and well-wishers were present for the celebration.
Rev. Dr. Archibald Gonsalves, OCD, Director, Ryshivana Spirituality Institute, Mangalore preached the homily. He beautifully summarised the life of St Joseph and offered an invitation to emulate noble virtues of St Joseph like trusting in God, silence, self-emptying of oneself, courageous, just and chaste life.
Rev. Dr Archibald said, “Unlike other parts of the world, the feast of St Joseph is very special and significant for the seminary, diocese of Mangalore and many parishes and institutions in Mangalore as these are dedicated to the patronage of St Joseph.”
Rev. Dr Ronald Serrao, Rector of the Seminary thanked all the dignitaries present. A sumptuous festal meal was served on the occasion.
