In a profound moment of spiritual grace, the Karnataka Regional Youth Commission (KRYC) Cross, on its “Journey to the Cross” pilgrimage, was solemnly received at St Vincent Ferrer Church, Valencia on the evening of September 25.Arriving at 5:30 p.m. from St Joseph Church, Jeppu, the sacred Cross was accompanied by ICYM members, parishioners, and Fr Harry DSouza, Spiritual Director of St Joseph’s Seminary, Jeppu.
With deep reverence, Fr Roque DSa, Parish Priest of Valencia, received the Cross, bowing in prayer and adorning it with a floral garland a sign of love and veneration.
Other dignitaries, including Fr Pradeep Rodrigues (Assistant Parish Priest), Ronald Rodrigues (Vice-President, Parish Pastoral Council and Animator ICYM Valencia), Rita Menezes (Secretary, Parish Pastoral Council), Alden Keith (President, ICYM Valencia) and Ria Menezes (Secretary, ICYM Valencia) , also offered floral tributes, expressing devotion and respect for the symbol of Christ’s suffering and victory.
With hearts uplifted in faith, the Cross was carried in a solemn procession into the church and enthroned in the sanctuary, becoming the focal point of prayer, reflection, and grace for the faithful. Fr Roque then reverently incensed the Holy Cross, symbolizing the prayers of the community rising to God, while Ria Menezes guided the congregation with her reflective narration of the sacred rites.
Following this, Fr Pradeep Rodrigues proclaimed the life-giving Word of God, delivering a powerful message on the significance of the Cross in Christian life. He reminded the faithful that the Cross is not merely a symbol of suffering, but a ladder to heaven, a sign of victory, and the ultimate expression of God’s love and mercy. He encouraged everyone to embrace their own crosses with courage and faith, for it is through trials that we find rest in Christ and partake in His redemptive mystery.
The liturgy was prayerfully led by the ICYM Valencia Unit, with the ICYM Choir lifting hearts to God through soul-stirring hymns. The Cross was exposed, inviting the faithful into a time of silent prayer, reflection, and heartfelt intercession at the feet of the Lord.
A large gathering of parishioners participated with deep devotion, filling the church with a profound atmosphere of reverence and grace.The KRYC Cross will remain at St Vincent Ferrer Church, Valencia for prayer and veneration until September 26, after which it will be reverently handed over to Our Lady of Miracles Church, Milagres, at 5:30 p.m.
News by Gordon DAlmeida
Pics by Deeron Crasta (@pictoegraphr) / Friston DSouza (@fristrography)
