Mangaluru :

The centenary celebrations of Rosario Cathedral, the first church of Mangalore diocese, will be held on Sunday.

However, the 100-year celebration merely spotlights the milestone of the present building built in 1915; the church is much older than that. Its rich history dates back to 1568.

In 1784, the edifice suffered much wear and tear when Tipu Sultan engaged in attack against churches, as he presumed the Coastal Christians were in favour of the British rule. As a result, the church suffered massive damage.

In 1799, Canara Christians returned to Mangalore. However, due to the new rules and regulations imposed by the British, Rosario Church of Bolar failed to establish its importance. Fortunately, in 1813, the devotees succeeded in building a small church.

In 1915, under the guidance of Father Henry Buzzoni and Brother Divo, the present church was constructed. Paul Perrini, the then Bishop, blessed the church.

This huge church is not only the Centre of the Diocese of Mangalore but also the Bishop’s official seat of exercising his authority. Bishops’ consecration, annual blessing of oils and all other important religious ceremonies are held here. The deceased Bishops’ burial ceremonies also held here and their tombs are found inside the church.

From the entrance of the church to the sanctuary on either side there are huge pillars on which stand the massive arches exhibiting awe and reverence. The huge pulpit (preaching place), the statue of Our Lady of Holy Rosary in the Sanctuary and baptistery enhance the beauty of the church.

The Kannada Karavali Catholics refer to the patroness of the church as Ruzar Mai, who, in their life, literature, culture, and faith, has become an inseparable part.

The bells of Rosario Cathedral have gained popularity. Each year, on the first Sunday during the Eucharistic procession from Milagres church to Rosario cathedral these bells are tolled for more than an hour. The bells announce the different hours and different events.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City> Mangaluru / Stanley Pinto, TNN / April 08th, 2015