Mangaluru: Most Rev Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza Bishop of Mangalore inaugurated ‘Pavitraatama Abhishelotsva 2017’ a State level Convention on the occasion of Golden Jubilee of Charismatic Renewal in the Catholic Church by lighting the lamp. A flag containing the logo of the Jubilee was hoisted on the occasion. As part of the inaugural programme seven doves (the symbol of seven gifts of the Holy Spirit) were released in the air with a big applause by the people.

The Bishop then offered the inaugural Holy Mass. In his homily the Bishop said that the Golden Jubilee of the Renewal is an occasion to thank God for the numerous gifts the Mother Church has received from God. Because of Renewal people have received countless blessings in the form of spiritual enrichment, physical healings, spiritual healings, change of life, reconciliations, release from evil habits etc.

Bishop Lawrence Mukkuzhi the Episcopal Advisor of Karnataka Regional Charismatic Service Team was the main speaker of the day. He preached on the theme ‘Walking with Jesus-Call to holiness’. Fr Franklin D’Souza of Shimoga Diocese and Fr Jose Vettiancal conducted the Adoration to the Blessed Sacrament.

Msgr Denis Moras Prabhu the Vicar General; Mr M.P. Noronha the Diocesan Pastoral Parishad Secretary; Mr J R Lobo M.L.A. Mangalore South Constituency; Mr Ivan D’Souza M.L.C. and Chief Whip Karnataka State Legislative Assembly; Fr Melwyn Noronha Spiritual Director Mangalore Service Team(MST), Mr Michael Noronha, Chairman Karnataka Service Team(KRST) Mr Arun Lobo Chairman(MST); were present on the occasion. Fr Onil D’Souza the Convener of the Convention welcomed the gathering. More than 10,000 people were present for the programme.