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Chitradurga, January 6, 2025: 04 January 2025 was a memorable day in the history of the Diocese of Shimoga, when Bishop Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga, blessed the new church dedicated to the Divine Mercy Jesus at Holalkere.

The program began at 10:30 AM with the attendance of 25 priests, 230 Catholics, and other guests. The family of donors was also present. Fr Richard Quadros, SVD cut the ribbon unveiling the beautiful new church. Bishop Francis Serrao SJ blessed the church, the crucifix, altar, ambo, and the tabernacle during the Holy Mass.

Following the Mass, there was a felicitation programme to honour the donors, architect, contractor, mission director, and others who contributed significantly to the construction of the church. Bishop Francis Serrao, SJ was recognized for his vision for the new mission. The service of all priests who worked in the mission, including Fr Roman Pinto, Fr Alphonse Lobo, and the incumbent Mission Director Fr Stany Mariappa were acknowledged and appreciated. Fr Ronald D'Cunha, who put up the compound wall, supervised the construction of the Presbytery and initiated the construction work of the church and Fr Arun Venil, the present Finance Officer of the Diocese, who took forward the construction work to its completion were also honoured during the programme.

Fr Nelson D'Souza coordinated the Liturgy of the day, Fr Venil D'Silva organised the felicitation programme, Fr Santhosh Pereira compered the programme with a professional touch, and the Karehalli Choir under the guidance of Fr Santhosh Almeida helped the congregation pray twice by singing once with melodious voices. The Religious Sisters of Mallige and Navachetana Convents did an excellent job by beautifying the church and the sanctuary with floral decorations. A meal was served to all in attendance.