"ಶಿವಮೊಗ್ಗ ಗುಡ್ ಶೆಫರ್ಡ್ ಚರ್ಚ್ ದರ್ಶನ"

The blessing and dedication of the newly constructed Good Shepherd Church at Gopala was held on Tuesday, March 19. Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao, S.J., Bishop of Shimoga presided over the event. In addition, Our Lady of Lourdes grotto built in the church premises was blessed by Most Rev. Joseph Arumachadath, Bishop of Bhadravati. The engraved pictures of Stations of the Cross were blessed by Bishop Geevarghese Makarios of Puttur. The adoration chapel by the Bishop-elect of Karwar, Duming Dias. Chikkamagaluru Bishop Thomasappa Antony swami blessed the entrance door of the Church and Bishop Henry D'Souza of Bellary preached during the mass. Nearly one hundred priests, fifty religious sisters and around 3,000 devotees from across Karnataka participated in this memorable event.
Special Characteristics of the Church: The church, designed in Roman Gothic style is capable of accommodating 600 people, stands tall at 78 feet with a grand bell tower and two smaller towers. The church is dedicated to Jesus, the Good Shepherd. The significant features of the church include two angels at the entrance that beckon the devotees. The 6-foot statues of Jesus' 12 disciples are enshrined on 12 Roman-style pillars. The birth, life, death, resurrection of Jesus are depicted in stained glass. Statues of Infant Jesus on the left and Our Lady of Velangani on the right evoke sense of devotion. The main altar platform 50 feet wide and 25 feet high is built according to Portuguese and Goan church architecture.

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