It was a joyful and memorable event for the parishioners of Our Lady of Fatima Church, Pernal when their shepherd the Bishop of Udupi, Rt. Rev. Dr. Gerald Lobo visited them from 26th and 28th May, 2018. Rev. Fr Arthur Pereira, the Parish Priest and the parishioners extended a warm welcome to him on 26th evening. The preliminary rites in the Church were followed by a visit to the cemetery.
The Bishop had a session on Catechism for the Confirmation children. This was followed by his meeting with the Altar Boys; SVP and Finance Committee members.
On 27th May, the Confirmation Mass was celebrated with great joy. 31 children 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 several groups, viz. Legion of Mary; YCS; 18 commissions’ Coordinator and Animators and ICYM. He attended the S.C.C. meeting in a ward. He spent time with the Sick in the parish. He also visited the Kripalaya Convent for Adoration, Rosary and Prayer and thereafter interacted with Sisters.
On 28th the Bishop celebrated Mass at the Church .After the Mass he had Meeting with Secular Franciscan Order; Sthree Sangatan and Catholic Sabha. The Pastoral visit concluded on Monday 28th with a Prayer Service, after which the Bishop returned to the Bishop’s House.