Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo inaugurated and blessed the newly built St Francis Assisi church at Tallur on 12 May 2016. The solemn holy Eucharist was presided over by Bishop and concelebrated by Rev. Fr Sunil Veigas, Parish Priest, V. Rev. Fr Valerian Mendonca, Chancellor Udupi Diocese, V. Rev. Fr Anil D’Souza, Dean of Kundapur Deanery and about 40 priests from Udupi and Mangalore Diocese. In his homily, Bishop highlighted the importance of the house of prayer, reflecting over the gospel passage-the cleansing of Jerusalem temple by Jesus by chasing the animal, bird sellers and other vendors out of the temple. He also stressed the significance church in the life of faithful.
After the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation programme was held in the Church ground. The programme began with welcome dance by children of parish. Rev. Fr Sunil Veigas, Mr Vinay Kumar Sorake, Minister of Urban Development, Mr Prathapchandra Shetty, MLC, V. Rev. Fr Anil D’Souza, Mr Gopala Poojary, MLA Byndoor, Mr Ananda Billava, President Tallur Grama Panchayath, Vedamoorthy Vidwan Ramachandra Bhat, Dharmadarshi Siddivinayaka Temple Hattiangadi, Maulana B A Ismail Madani, AL-Badriya Juma Masjid Mavinakatte, were present on the dais. Bishop Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo presided for the function.
The message and the Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis was read out by Stany D’Silva, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council. The dignitaries on the dais felicitated the former parish priests, Parish Priest, donors, sponsors, the engineer, contractor, Vice President and Secretary of PPC on the occasion.
In his Presidential address, Bishop said that in Indian culture, places of worship have a distinct place. He complemented the Parish Priest and the faithful of Tallur parish for their efforts in constructing such a beautiful church within a short period. It was their long cherished dream. He acknowledged their love, sacrifice and labour poured into the construction of the new church.
In his message Mr Vinay Kumar Sorake recalled the contribution of Christians in various fields and their prominent role in the development of nation by promoting quality education. He specially appreciated the role of Catholics in the twin districts of Udupi and Mangalore through promoting education and health care.
Rev. Fr Sunil Veigas delivered the vote of thanks and Mr Anil D’Silva and Mrs Neetha Mendonca compered the programme.
