New Year: Special prayers and thanksgiving held at churches in DK & Udupi

Team Udayavani, Jan 1, 2025, 10:21 AM IST

Mangaluru: Coastal churches witnessed special prayers and Mass services to mark New Year celebrations. Devotees expressed gratitude to God for His blessings and protection from adversities during the past year.

At the Bishop’s House in Kodialbail, a holy service and sermon were led by Mangalore Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, who urged the faithful to leave behind the bitterness of the past year and embrace the New Year with hope and joy. He wished for a prosperous and happy year for all.

In his sermon, Rev. Fr. Maxim Rosario emphasized the importance of new beginnings, while Rev. Fr. Jagadish Pinto and Rev. Fr. Victor George participated in the ceremonies.

Special Mass services were conducted at Rosario Cathedral, Milagres, Urwa, Bejai, Bendorewell, Kulasekhar, Shaktinagar, Bikkarnakatte, and other churches in Mangaluru. Devotees prayed for global peace and happiness in the New Year. Cakes were distributed, and greetings were exchanged among attendees.

Udupi: Special Mass and Celebrations

Christians in Udupi also welcomed 2025 with prayers and thanksgiving. On New Year’s Eve, devotees gathered in churches to thank God for His blessings in 2024 and prayed for peace and prosperity in 2025.

Udupi Diocese Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo led the holy Mass at Milagres Cathedral in Kallianpur. He urged the faithful to follow God’s path and contribute to global peace.

Special thanksgiving prayers were held before the Mass, with church leaders expressing gratitude for God’s guidance during the past year. Prayers were also offered for peace across the world in 2025.

Prominent priests, including Rev. Monsignor Ferdinand Gonsalves, Rev. Fr. Pradeep Kadoza, and Rev. Fr. Dr. Jencil Alva, officiated the services. Holy Masses were also held at significant churches such as the Mother of Sorrows Church in Udupi, Holy Rosary Church in Kundapura, St. Lawrence Basilica in Karkala, and St. Ann’s Church in Thottam.

Youth organizations arranged cultural programs and distributed cakes as part of the New Year celebrations. After the services, attendees exchanged greetings and good wishes, marking the joyous beginning of the New Year.