It was a joyful and memorable event for the parishioners of St Philip Neri Church, Basrur when their shepherd the Bishop of Udupi, Rt. Rev. Dr. Gerald Lobo visited them from 16th to 18th of February, 2019. Rev. Fr Charles Noronha, Parish Priest; Deacon Jithesh Castelino and the parishioners extended a warm welcome to him on 16th evening.
The preliminary rite in the Church was followed by visit to the cemetery. The Bishop had a session on Catechism for the Confirmation children.
On 17th February, the Confirmation Mass was celebrated with great joy. A total of 33 students were administered the Sacrament of Confirmation. In his homily during the Mass, the Bishop preached on the importance of family life.
After the Mass, the Bishop had meetings with various groups, viz. Altar Boys; Marian Sodality; Missionary Children’s Association; ICYM; YCS; Catholic Sabha; Finance Committee members and SFO. He attended the S.C.C. meeting in a ward.
On 18th the Bishop celebrated Mass in the St Joseph Convent, and thereafter interacted with Sisters. He spent time with the Sick in the parish. He visited the school children during their assembly. After the school visit he met the Member of SVP; Sthree Sanghatan; 18 Commission animators and Coordinator. He concluded by summarizing the entire pastoral visit and left for Udupi at around 3:00 p.m.