Belagavi: In an experience that was unique and would go down the memory lanes for generations to come, for the first time, Catholics in Belagavi took part in the Palm Sunday mass via live streaming. While the Eucharistic services were held in churches with only the parish priest celebrating the same, Bishop of Belagavi Rev Dr Derek Fernandes celebrated the mass at Fatima Cathedral that was live streamed for the faithful.
Under the critical circumstances this year, adhering to the lock down directives laid down by the authorities, Catholics in the Diocese of Belagavi took part in the Palm Sunday mass from their respective homes. Diocese of Belagavi had made special live streaming arrangements so that the people could continue following their prayers and religious rituals from home.
Bishop Fernandes celebrated the mass from the Fatima Cathedral Sunday morning. While praying for the nation which is in distress due to the Covid 19 crisis, he urged the faithful to stay at homes and stay safe. Comforting the faithful who could not take part in the Eucharistic service like every year he urged them to repent like St Peter, the disciple of Christ who had denied Jesus during the trial and later had cried in front of Jesus while he was being crucified.
“Though we cannot confess our sins in churches this year, lets repent during our prayers while we pray by staying at our homes, resolving not to sin again,” Bishop Fernandes urged in his sermon.
Meanwhile, Christians in the city observed the Palm Sunday by attending the prayer services through live streaming on their TVs, laptops etc.
Later in the night at 9 pm, Christians also lit the candles as the mark of solidarity to the nation. Bishop Fernandes has urged people to stay at home safely. As the public prayer services on Good Friday and Easter midnight prayers have been cancelled, live streaming arrangements have been made so that Christians could continue praying from their homes during the week, which is the most sacred week for the Christians.
PHOTO : Bishop Derek Fernandes celebrating the Palm Sunday mass that was live streamed with palms in his hands.