Udupi: The parishioners of St Francis Xavier Church in the Diocese are all happy in regard to the inauguration of their new church. The structural work of the new church began on May 24, 2014.
The church has been built in a unique layout with a dome on top which can be only found in Udyavar and no where in the diocese of Udupi-Mangalore, the church will also boast of the stained glass works. Adding to its cap is another feather in the form of The Christ, The Redeemer statue installed on top of the dome. The installing of the gigantic statue was witnessed on February 26.
Specifications:
Christ, The Redeemer statue was made at Simon and Co., Mangaluru. The statue is 12 feet high, 15 feet wide and weighs 400kgs.
The Statue has two sided face, palms, whole body and feet; to and fro, one facing towards the entrance of the church in the direction of SDM Ayurvedic Hospital while other side can be seen from the National highway 66.
It has been built with All Season Fiber Material. First the statute is built with clay and iron rods. Then the fiber material is added and the required shape is molded. Hence providing a longer life span.
The statue has been installed above the dome which is at the height of 105 feet. The height of the dome is 42 feet high and 36 feet in diameter.
To avoid the statue from shaking due to the wind, a small opening had to be made to fill the statute with 3 feet of concrete inside it.
Dr Fr Roque D’Souza, parish Priest, Udyavar amidst his heavy work schedule has been successful in bringing up this church along with the co ordination of Lawrence D’Sa, Vice president, Michael D’Souza, Secretary, Parish Pastoral council, Udyavar, Melvin Noronha, Convener, and the members of the Building Core Committee, the parishioners and all the workers.
The Church is all set to be inaugurated on April 28, 2016.