Kallianpur, April 18: With deep devotion and sacred reverence, the faithful of Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, gathered on Holy Thursday to commemorate the Last Supper of Jesus Christ. The celebration was marked by meaningful liturgy, solemn rituals, and a powerful message of humility and love.
The main liturgical service of the Udupi Diocese was held at Milagres Cathedral under the leadership of the Bishop of Udupi, Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by the Cathedral’s Parish Priest, Rector and Vicar General of the Diocese, Msgr. Ferdinand Gonsalves, along with Asst. Priest, Rev. Fr Pradeep Cardoza; Diocesan Secretary of Doctrine and Faith, Rev. Dr Jencil Alva, Chancellor, V. Rev. Fr Stephen D’Souza, Rev. Fr Ronson D’Souza, and Rev. Fr Manoj Furtado.
A highlight of the evening was the symbolic Rite of the Washing of the Feet, where Bishop Gerald Lobo washed the feet of twelve representative of the parishioners, reenacting the act of Jesus Christ at the Last Supper. The gesture emphasized Christian values of humility, service, and unconditional love.
In his homily, Msgr. Ferdinand reflected on the significance of Holy Thursday: “This day reminds us of the Lord’s Supper, His ultimate service, and boundless love. It challenges us to imitate Christ by serving others with humility, even those who wrong or oppose us.”
He stressed the commandment of love given by Jesus: “Love one another as I have loved you,” calling the faithful to extend forgiveness and compassion in everyday life.
The liturgy concluded with a solemn adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, setting a reflective tone for Good Friday—the day marking the crucifixion of Jesus—which will be observed with fasting, prayer, and the Way of the Cross.
The celebration at Milagres Cathedral drew a large congregation, united in prayer and devotion, entering the sacred triduum of Easter with renewed faith and spiritual fervor.
