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The Silver Jubilee Celebration

                          Br Pradeep Anthony L OFM

Silver Jubilee of St. Anthony’s Church, Bannur: A Grace-Filled Celebration of Faith and Unity

Bannur, April 29, 2025 — The faithful of St. Anthony’s Church, Bannur, gathered in large numbers to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of their beloved parish. The grand occasion was marked by a solemn Eucharistic celebration and cultural programs, attended by numerous dignitaries, friars, diocesan priests, religious sisters, and lay faithful.

The Jubilee celebration was blessed with the presence of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, who presided over the Holy Eucharist. The celebration was also graced by Br. Xavier Durairaj OFM, Provincial of St. Thomas the Apostle Province, Br. Christy, Provincial Definitor, Br. Alex Martis OFM, Guardian of Bangalore and Bannur Parish, and Br. Alphonse Moras OFM, the first Parish Priest of Bannur, along with Fr. Lawrence Mascarenhas, Parish Priest of Puttur.

Political and civic dignitaries also added to the joy of the occasion, including Sri Ashok Kumar Rai, MLA of Puttur Constituency, and Smt. Gauri, Municipal Councilor. Many other Franciscan friars, diocesan priests, and religious sisters participated, reflecting the wide support and affection the parish enjoys.

The Eucharist, held outdoors to accommodate the large crowd, began at 5:00 PM. The Bishop called the faithful to gratitude, urging them to recognize God’s blessings over the 25 years of parish life. The liturgy was meticulously planned over months, allowing for full and active participation of the congregation.

An extraordinary aspect of the celebration was the weather. Despite rain in nearby areas, the skies over the church grounds remained clear—a moment many perceived as a divine sign.

Following the Mass, a vibrant cultural program unfolded. Past and present priests, benefactors, and religious were honored with mementos and shawls. The Jubilee Souvenir was officially released. Inspiring speeches marked the evening:

• Bishop Saldanha emphasized that mutual love and goodness are the true essence of Church life—not buildings, but the people.
• MLA Ashok Kumar Rai praised the Christian community’s unmatched service to society.
• Councilor Gauri spoke of unity and harmony, calling for human solidarity over division.
• Br. Xavier Durairaj OFM honored the Bishop with a shawl and the Damiano Cross, reminding the faithful of St. Francis’ call to renewal.

The event concluded with captivating cultural dances that had been in preparation for over a month. Attendees enjoyed refreshments during the evening and a festive supper afterward.

The success of the Jubilee was the fruit of dedicated teamwork. Under the leadership of Fr. Balthazar Pinto and his parish team, meticulous planning ensured every detail—from liturgy and stage decoration to food and hospitality—was thoughtfully executed.

The 25th Anniversary of St. Anthony’s Church, Bannur, will be remembered as a joyful and spiritually enriching milestone, a testament to the deep faith and unity of its people.

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