Karkala: The nine-day novena services began for the preparation of Annual Feast of St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur near here on Sunday, January 15.The nine-day novena service was inaugurated by Ivan D’Souza, MLC and Chief Whip of Karnataka Legislative Council on Sunday. Sunil Kumar MLA and Chief whip of Karnataka Legislative Assembly, Gopal Bhandary former MLA were present.

Rev Fr. George D’Souza Rector of the Minor Basilica, Rev Fr. Stephen D’Souza Director of Liturgy Commission, Diocese of Udupi, Rev Fr. Vijay D’Souza Asst Parish Priest, Richard Pinto Vice President of the Basilica Parish Pastoral Council, Santhosh D’Silva Secretary, John D’ Silva Banker, Mumbai, George Castelino Nakre among others were present.

The Annual Feast will be celebrated from 22nd January to 26th January, 2017. Around 43 masses will be offered in various languages during the festival.