Mount Carmel Devotion Inaugurated at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga
Shivamogga, February 4, 2026: On 31st January 2026, Sacred Heart Cathedral joyfully inaugurated the Mount Carmel Devotion for the first time, and the Dedication Day of the Cathedral was also solemnly celebrated.
The solemn Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Shivamogga, who inaugurated the Mount Carmel Devotion with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. At the end of the Holy Eucharist, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Fr. Stany D’Souza, thanked everyone who contributed for the Mount Carmel Devotion.
Fr. Pius D’Souza delivered a meaningful homily, highlighting the vital role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of every Christian and inviting the faithful to deepen their trust in Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Following the Holy Mass, Fr. Sunil Rodrigues, OCD, led a special devotional service consisting of five prayerful stations. At each stop, a Gospel passage was proclaimed by Fr. Franklin D’Souza, followed by a brief and reflective message by Fr. Pius D’Souza, connected to the significance of Mount Carmel, enabling the faithful to prayerfully meditate on the Word of God.
A solemn and prayerful procession was then held. Our Lady of Mount Carmel was reverently carried by the faithful in a beautifully decorated, wooden-carved theru, accompanied by a candlelight procession. A large number of parishioners and devotees participated, creating a prayerful atmosphere.
The celebration concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. During this time, a special healing and prayer service was conducted by Fr. Franklin D’Souza, offering spiritual consolation to the faithful and a moment of prayer and spiritual renewal. Bishop Duming Dias led the benediction.
The entire devotion was systematically and prayerfully organised by the Parish Priest, Fr. Stany D’Souza together with his assistant Parish Priests Fr Jostro MSFS and Fr Johnson SJ. At the end of the celebration, food was distributed to all, fostering fellowship and community spirit.
