The Catholic faithful of Bangladesh gathered in large numbers to celebrate the feast of Saint Anthony of Padua at Saint Anthony’s Church in Cathuly village, Mothurapur Parish, under the Rajshahi Diocese on February 28.
The annual feast considered the most popular Catholic celebration in Bangladesh, was marked by deep devotion, prayers, and a strong unity among believers.
While Saint Anthony’s official feast day falls on June 13, the Catholic community in Cathuly celebrates it in February when the weather is more favorable for outdoor events.
This year’s theme, "Pilgrim of Hope: Saint Anthony is the Light of the Church," reflected the saint’s enduring spiritual significance and role as a guiding force for the faithful.
The celebration commenced with a Novena on February 19, followed by candle lighting, Holy Mass, and special intercessory prayers, drawing devotees from various faith backgrounds.
The event underscored the universality of Saint Anthony’s appeal, as people from different religious traditions participated in the solemn occasion.
Bishop James Romen Boiragi of Khulna presided over the Holy Mass, delivering an inspiring homily that encouraged the faithful to embrace their faith with devotion.
"There are different types of crosses in our lives, and as followers of Jesus, we must bear our crosses with faith and perseverance," the bishop remarked.
He also highlighted Saint Anthony’s unwavering commitment to Christ, urging attendees to emulate his example.
"In today’s world, we are called upon to change our hearts and seek spiritual renewal. Saint Anthony was a preacher of God’s word, and we too should strive to spread the message of Jesus," said Bishop Boiragi. He reminded the Church that Saint Anthony’s love and mercy remain accessible to all who seek his intercession.
Devotees expressed deep personal connections with Saint Anthony, attributing blessings and answered prayers to his intercession. Margaret Costa, a participant in the feast, shared her heartfelt experience, saying, "Every year, I come to celebrate this feast to show my devotion and gratitude. Saint Anthony has blessed my family in countless ways."
The parish priest, Father Bernard Rozario, expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to making the event a grand success. "Saint Anthony is a beloved saint in our lives. Through his intercession, we come closer to God," he stated, acknowledging the collective efforts of priests, nuns, and volunteers.
This year’s feast was attended by 12 priests, 16 nuns from various congregations, and approximately 4,000 Christian devotees, making it one of the most significant religious gatherings in the region.
Saint Anthony of Padua, a Portuguese Catholic priest, and Franciscan friar, was born in 1195 and was known for his piety, kindness, and deep compassion for the poor and sinners. Canonized by Pope Gregory IX in 1232, he remains one of the most venerated saints in the Catholic Church.
The celebration in Cathuly once again reaffirmed the enduring faith and devotion of the Catholic community in Bangladesh, as they came together in prayer and gratitude to honor the beloved saint.
The feast concluded with blessings for the faithful, who left with renewed spiritual strength and hope for the year ahead.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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