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Sivamogga, October 5, 2024: Asha Kiran Ashram, Hosa Jedikatte, in the Diocese of Shimoga, celebrated the feast of their patron saint, Francis of Assisi, on October 4, 2024.

The main celebrant was Monsignor Very Reverend Father Stany D'Souza, Vicar General of the Diocese of Shimoga, and Reverend Father Franklin D'Souza delivered the homily. The Mass commenced at 11:00 a.m. A considerable number of priests and religious gathered for the festive celebrations.

Reverend Father Prakash Pinto OFM Cap, Superior of the Community, welcomed the Vicar General and all those assembled.

As the congregation commemorated the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi receiving the stigmata, Father Franklin D'Souza based his sermon on the same theme. In his homily, he expounded on the significance of the stigmata, explaining that it represents the imitation of Christ, love and sacrifice, union with Christ, compassion and empathy, as well as self-denial and humility. He emphasized that suffering holds a unique meaning in Christian spirituality.

At the conclusion of the Holy Eucharist, Superior Father Prakash expressed gratitude to Vicar General Monsignor Stany D'Souza and felicitated him on his recent appointment as the Vicar General of the Diocese of Shimoga. He then thanked the homilist and all those who had gathered for the feast.

A festive meal was shared by all at 12:30 p.m.

Asha Kiran Ashram was established in 2001. It operates as a comprehensive rehabilitation facility for individuals struggling with addiction.