The Solemnity of St. John the Baptist was celebrated with great devotion, faith, and enthusiasm at our church on 24th June 2026. The feast celebration brought together parishioners, priests, religious members, and well-wishers in a spirit of prayer, unity, and fellowship.

The celebration began with the solemn Holy Mass at 6:00 pm. Prior to the Eucharistic celebration, at 5:45 pm, His Excellency Most Rev. Mar James Patteril, Bishop of the Diocese of Belthangady, was warmly welcomed at the church gate. The Bishop was received with great honour and was accompanied into the church through a solemn procession. The Morning Star Brass Band added beauty and grandeur to the procession by providing melodious music, creating a prayerful and festive atmosphere.

The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. John Baptist Saldanha, Deanery Head of Puttur. Most Rev. Mar James Patteril, Bishop of the Diocese of Belthangady, delivered the homily and reflected on the life, dedication, and mission of St. John the Baptist. His message inspired the faithful to follow the values of humility, courage, and commitment shown by the great saint.

The Holy Mass was concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Marvin Lobo, Rev. Fr Gratian Alvares, Rev. Fr. Vivian Rodriguez, Rev. Fr. Peter Gonsalves, Rev. Fr. Arun Venil D’Silva, Rev. Fr. Lawrence, Rev. Fr. Alwin Crasta, Rev. Fr. Melvin D’Silva, Rev. Fr. Varghese Kaipinadka, Rev. Fr. Biju, Rev. Fr. Samuel George, Rev. Fr. Jibin Boby, Rev. Fr. Anil Prakash D’Silva, and Deacon Wilfred Steven Rodrigues. The presence of numerous priests added spiritual significance and grace to the feast celebration.

Following the Holy Mass, a grand stage programme was organised as part of the feast night celebration. The programme was compered by Mr. Vincent Menezes. The event began with a graceful welcome dance presented by the children of the church, which added joy and colour to the gathering.

The dignitaries were welcomed to the dais. Mrs. Shanthi Priya D’Souza, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council, delivered the welcome speech and extended greetings to all the guests and parishioners. Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Anil Prakash D’Silva introduced the dignitaries to the gathering.

As part of the programme, students who achieved excellent results in the SSLC and PUC examinations were felicitated for their academic achievements. The parish also honoured Mr. Noel Praveen Monteiro, Immediate Past Vice President, and Mrs. Veena Mascarenhas, Immediate Past Secretary, in appreciation of their dedicated service and contributions to the parish.

The former ward heads — Mrs. Rosline Rodrigues, Mr. Thomas Mascarenhas, Mr. Rafael Strella, and Mr. Inas Monteiro — were also felicitated for their valuable service and commitment towards the growth and development of the parish community.

Rev. Fr. John Baptist Saldanha was felicitated during the programme, after which he shared his wishes and blessings with the parish community. Later, Most Rev. Mar James Patteril was felicitated with certificate of honour. Mrs. Winnifred Clara D’Souza introduced the Bishop’s journey and achievements. The Bishop then addressed the gathering with an inspiring message.

Mrs. Laveena D’Souza, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the feast celebration.

The children of the parish presented a meaningful skit depicting the life and mission of St. John the Baptist, which was appreciated by everyone present. Rev. Fr. Binoy also joined the celebration.

At the conclusion of the celebration, Most Rev. Mar James Patteril blessed the feast food prepared by the parishioners. The feast dinner was served to all devotees, bringing the celebration to a joyful conclusion.

The Solemnity of St. John the Baptist was a memorable occasion that strengthened the bonds of faith, fellowship, and unity among the entire parish community.