NEWS

Hospet Parish Marks St Sebastian Feast with Deep Faith and Vibrant Community Spirit 

Hospet: November 09, 2025: The parish community of Hospet came together on 9 November 2025 to honour St Sebastian, celebrating the feast with devotion, joy, and long-held tradition. The solemn celebration was led by Fr Vikas Pereira, with Fr Gregory D’Souza, the parish priest, joining him at the altar.

During his message, Fr Vikas Pereira reflected on the inspiring journey of St Sebastian, highlighting his unwavering courage and commitment to Christ. He invited the faithful to strengthen their spiritual life with conviction and devotion, urging them to stand firm in their beliefs. He also reminded the congregation of the significance this feast holds for Hospet parish families, drawing attention to a centuries-old custom cherished by generations. He recounted how, in earlier times, families from the region sought the intercession of St Sebastian during periods of widespread illness, praying for protection for both people and livestock. This deep-rooted history continues to shape the parish’s gratitude and reverence toward the saint.

Fr Vikas further connected the celebration to the liturgical importance of the day, including its association with the Church’s heritage and the privilege of commemorating it on a Sunday, adding to its spiritual richness.

The feast was observed with vibrant participation. A graceful procession moved around the church grounds, carrying the statue of St Sebastian in a spirit of prayer and unity. The beautifully offered mass was followed by a hearty community meal, prepared entirely by parish members. The cooking began the previous night, with many volunteers gathering to chop vegetables, prepare meat, and arrange all that was needed. Their collective effort reflected the warmth, harmony, and togetherness that define the parish.

The celebration concluded on a note of gratitude, with the faithful expressing joy in belonging to a community that honours its traditions with devotion, teamwork, and shared purpose.