Our church, was blessed with the pastoral visit of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, on 31st January and 1st February 2026. The two-day visit was a spiritually enriching occasion filled with prayer, interaction, guidance, and encouragement for the entire parish community.

The Bishop arrived on Saturday at 4.30 PM and was warmly received by the parish priest and parishioners. The visit began with the Initial Rite, setting a prayerful tone for the pastoral journey. He then visited the cemetery, where he offered prayers for the departed faithful of the parish. Later in the evening, Bishop Saldanha met the Parish Finance Committee and the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) along with the 21 Commissions, discussing the functioning and growth of the parish. The day continued with fellowship during dinner with parish members, followed by verification of parish documents.

Sunday began with Morning Prayers at 7.45 AM. The Bishop gave special instructions to the Confirmation children and conducted catechism for the parishioners, guiding them in faith formation. The Eucharistic Celebration at 9.00 AM was the spiritual highlight of the visit. In his homily, the Bishop encouraged the faithful to remain rooted in faith, strengthen family prayer, and actively participate in parish activities.

After Holy Mass, he met the parents of priests and religious of the parish. He then interacted with various parish associations, including the Altar Boys, Missionary Children’s Association, YCS, ICYM, Women’s Association, Catholic Sabha, and Catechism Teachers, appreciating their service and motivating them to continue their mission with dedication. The Bishop also visited the St. Francis Capuchin Fathers.

In the afternoon, he blessed the newly built house of Mrs. Laveena Lobo, visited two sick parishioners, and later held meetings with the Parish Priest and the BEC members. Later, he attended the Small Christian Community (SCC) prayer gathering at St. John the Baptist Ward. The pastoral visit concluded with his departure at 5.30 PM, leaving the parish spiritually strengthened and joyful.

The visit was graced by the presence of Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Anil Prakash D’Silva, Deacon Wilfred Stevan Rodrigues, Vice President Mrs. Shanthi Priya D’Souza, Secretary Mrs. Laveena D’Souza, All Commission Head Mrs. Winifred D’Souza, six ward heads and their representatives, presidents and secretaries of all church associations, members of various parish bodies, and a large number of parishioners who actively participated in the celebrations and meetings.