Delivering the homily during the annual feast celebration of St Anthony at St Anthony's Church, Camp, Belagavi, on Friday, Bishop Fernandes said that St. Anthony was not only a renowned preacher and miracle worker but also a humble servant of society whose life was dedicated to uplifting the poor, comforting the distressed, reconciling broken relationships, and defending the dignity of the vulnerable.
Presiding over the solemn Feast Mass, the Bishop noted that St. Anthony's deep love for God found expression through his unwavering service to humanity.
"As we celebrate the Feast of St Anthony of Padua, we remember not only a great preacher and miracle worker but also a humble servant of society. In a world often marked by indifference and division, St Anthony reminds us that true holiness is lived through compassion, kindness, and active concern for others. His example inspires us to become instruments of peace, healing, and hope in our families and communities," Bishop Fernandes said.
He urged the faithful to draw inspiration from the saint's life and serve society with humility and love.
The feast celebrations witnessed a large turnout of devotees from Belagavi, Goa, and Maharashtra. Special prayers, novenas, and petitions offered by hundreds of devotees marked the solemn occasion.
Parish Priest Fr Vijay Mendith, Fr Gerard D'Silva, Fr Eric Mathias, Fr Thomas Lobo, along with a large number of priests, religious sisters, and members of the Christian community, participated in the celebrations.
The religious observances concluded with a procession of the statue of St. Anthony within the church premises, as devotees joined in prayer and thanksgiving, seeking the saint's intercession and blessings.
