By Louis Rodrigues –
Belagavi: While stringent measures are being initiated in order to prevent the onset of the dreaded corona virus across the nation, adhering to the government directives and directives of the higher church authorities, Diocese of Belagavi has called off the Lenten programs and prayer services which is held at the historic Nandgad Cross near Khanapur.
Every year during the Lent season that commences on Ash Wednesday and culminates after Good Friday, a period of about 45 days, Christians and people of different faith coming from Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and other states throng to Nandgad to take part in the prayer services and programs.
In a press release in charge of Immaculate Conception Church, Nandgad Rev Fr Vijay Mendith has informed that the Lenten programme at the Nandgad Cross has been cancelled. “Due to Covid – 19 and subsequent preventive measures announced by both the State Government and Government of India, and as per the directions of the Rev Dr Derek Fernandes, Bishop of the Diocese of Belgaum, all the Lenten programme and prayers at the Miraculous Cross, Nandgad have been cancelled from March 13 to April 3, 2020. Let us take all precautions while at home and at work without any panic. Let us be responsible citizens by following and educating others to remain careful at least for the next one month,” Fr Mendith has said.
Bishop Derek Fernandes too has urged the people to adhere to the government directives and preventive measures initiated by the health authorities. “Please continue praying from your homes and wherever you are so that the merciful Lord may come to our aid and that we may experience his healing love,” Bishop Fernandes has urged.