Historic Way of the Cross at Kalavar-Pezar to Mark 241st Annual Observance in Jubilee Year
Mangalore: In commemoration of the Jubilee Year of the Birth of Jesus, the historic Way of the Cross devotion, a revered tradition spanning over two centuries, will be observed for its 241st consecutive year at St. Joseph’s Church in Kalavar-Pezar, within the Mangalore Catholic Diocese. This unbroken tradition, which originated on Ash Wednesday 241 years ago, is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
The annual observance holds immense significance for the Catholic faithful of the region and beyond, drawing thousands to participate in prayerful reflection and spiritual renewal. This year’s theme, “Pilgrims journeying in the shadow of the Holy Cross,” invites attendees to contemplate the profound meaning of Christ’s sacrifice and its relevance to their own spiritual journeys.
The day-long event promises a comprehensive program designed to foster deep spiritual engagement. From 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, a spiritual retreat will be held, offering participants a space for reflection on the Word of God. The retreat will incorporate elements of praise and worship, fostering a sense of communal devotion, alongside continuous intercessory prayer, providing an opportunity for individual and collective petitions.
The afternoon will feature a sequence of profound spiritual exercises. At 3:00 PM, members of the Charismatic Renewal team will lead the recitation of the Divine Mercy Rosary, a powerful prayer invoking divine mercy and healing. This will be followed at 3:30 PM by a reflective discourse delivered by Rev. Fr. Clifford Fernandes, Parish Priest of Cordel Church, Kulshekar, providing insights and perspectives on the significance of the Cross in contemporary life.
The culmination of the day’s spiritual preparation will be the solemn Holy Mass, to be celebrated at 5:00 PM by the Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of the Mangalore Diocese. His presence underscores the importance the Diocese places on this enduring tradition.
Following the Holy Mass, the centerpiece of the day, the historic Way of the Cross, will be preached by Rev. Fr. Denis D’Sa, Parish Priest of Thottam Church from the Udupi Catholic Diocese and Public Relations Officer of the Diocese of Udupi. Rev. Fr. D’Sa’s homily is expected to draw upon his deep theological understanding and pastoral experience to guide attendees through the fourteen stations of the cross, meditating on the suffering and ultimate triumph of Christ.
After the completion of the Way of the Cross, veneration will be offered to the Holy Relic of the Body of Christ, a tangible symbol of faith and a source of grace for the faithful. Organizers anticipate an estimated 7,000 Catholic faithful from across the region and potentially further afield will participate in the event. Stringent arrangements have been made to ensure the entire program is conducted in an orderly and reverent manner. The day’s proceedings are scheduled to conclude by 9:00 PM.
Understanding the logistical needs of such a large gathering, comprehensive transportation arrangements have been made to facilitate access for devotees. Furthermore, food provisions have been meticulously planned to cater to all attendees throughout the day, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
The origin of this sacred tradition at Kalavar can be traced back 241 years, beginning on Ash Wednesday and continuing unbroken to the present day. Its enduring nature speaks to the deep-rooted faith and devotion of the Catholic community in the region.
A press conference was held to formally announce the event, led by Rev. Fr. Lawrence Ronald D’Souza, the Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church, Kalavar-Pezar. He was joined by Rev. Fr. Rudolph D’Sa, the Deanery Superior, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the organization of this significant event. Elias Fernandes, Media Advisor, also participated, emphasizing the importance of disseminating information and ensuring accessibility for all who wish to partake in this historic spiritual observance. Anil Peris, Vice President of the Parish Council, Philomena Fernandes, Secretary, and Pramila Peris, Deanery Representative, were also present, further demonstrating the widespread commitment to the success of the event. Walter Monteiro and Alvin D’Souza were among the other attendees who contributed to the press briefing.
The 241st annual observance of the Way of the Cross at Kalavar-Pezar promises to be a profound spiritual experience, offering a unique opportunity for reflection, prayer, and communal worship within the context of the Jubilee Year. Organizers invite all to participate in this historic event and deepen their faith through the contemplation of Christ’s suffering and ultimate resurrection.