Udupi bishop celebrates 75th birthday, Silver Jubilee of episcopal ordination

Udupi: A momentous celebration unfolded at the open grounds of the Milagres Cathedral in Kallianpur, on Sunday, commemorating the 75th birthday of the Most Rev Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of the Udupi Diocese, alongside the Silver Jubilee of his 25 years of episcopal ordination.The event was graced by the presence of the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, Most Rev Leopoldo Girelli, who was welcomed by Bishop Lobo, Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, the vicar general of the Diocese of Udupi, Fr Roshan D'Souza, the chancellor of the diocese, and various lay leaders from the community. This visit was particularly significant as it marked the Apostolic Nuncio's first engagement with the Diocese of Udupi.The celebrations commenced with a thanksgiving mass led by Bishop Lobo, attended by an assembly of bishops, clergy, and devoted parishioners. In his homily, Most Rev Francis Serrao, the Bishop of Shimoga, extolled Bishop Lobo for his Christ-like leadership and dedication to his flock. "It is not to celebrate just the jubilee of two occasions; it is a celebration of a man's 75 years of faith, a celebration of a shepherd's tireless toil of 25 years for his sheep," he remarked.Following the mass, the public felicitation programme commenced, during which Apostolic Nuncio Girelli delivered a heartfelt message, acknowledging Bishop Lobo's life as a model for society. The Nuncio praised the bishop's service-oriented approach, which set a commendable standard for governance within the diocese and served as an inspiration for other dioceses across the nation.Archbishop Peter Machado of the Bangalore Archdiocese also took the opportunity to commend Bishop Lobo, recognising him as a friend of the people and highlighting his exceptional ability to understand and address their needs. In his acceptance speech, Bishop Lobo expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported him throughout his life and ministry.Retired Archbishop of Bangalore and current Administrator of the Mysore Diocese, Most Rev Bernard Moras; retired Bishop of Agra, Most Rev Albert D'Souza; and numerous other bishops from across India were present. The programme was conducted by Monsignor Ferdinand Gonsalves. The Diocesan Financial Committee members, Pritesh D'Sa and Jenisha Kemmannu, played a pivotal role in hosting the event.