Holy Cross Church Celebrates 148th Founder’s Day with Mass and Fellowship

The Holy Cross Church in Cordel celebrated the 148th death anniversary of its founder, Fr Alexander Dubois, on December 12, 2023. Known affectionately as Frad Saib, the occasion was marked by a solemn Mass at the church grounds, led by Fr Rohit D’Costa, director of Mangala Jyothi.

Mass Highlights Family and Faith

During his homily, Fr Rohit emphasized the importance of family, faith, and trust. He praised Frad Saib’s unwavering dedication, which was instrumental in establishing the Holy Cross Church in Cordel. “Honouring one’s parents is a divine virtue that invites blessings from God. Recognizing and rectifying one’s mistakes is crucial. The Word of God serves as an inspiration for all of us. Let us adopt it in our lives, becoming benevolent members of society,” he stated.

The Mass was attended by notable members of the church community, including Cordel parish priest Fr Clifford Fernandes, assistant parish priest Fr Vijay Monteiro, and Fr Denzil Lobo. Priests from various churches across the Mangalore diocese also participated, highlighting the event’s significance within the broader community.

Community Celebration and Fellowship

Following the religious ceremony, the attendees gathered for a fellowship meal, with approximately 3,000 individuals partaking in the celebration. This gathering not only commemorated Frad Saib’s legacy but also fostered a sense of community among the parishioners.

Among those present were Ruth Castelino, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Committee, and Anil D’Souza, the committee’s secretary. The fellowship meal served as a platform for members of the community to connect and share their experiences, reflecting the values of unity and togetherness that Frad Saib championed.

This celebration at Holy Cross Church stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Fr Alexander Dubois and his contributions to the community. The event not only honored the past but also reinforced the bonds of faith and fellowship that continue to thrive in Cordel today.