VIBHOOTI 2008

We begin our Lent on Feb. 4, with the penitential rite or "Kurissuvara perunnal" on Feb. 3 this year. Making the sign of the cross with ash on our forehead is a sign of accepting the salvation Jesus wrought for us by dying on the cross.

It also indicates our willingness to do penance for our sinful ways, renew our way of life and follow Jesus.
Rev. Fr. Kuriakose Vadana mst, our parish priest, and Rev. Fr. John Karuvelil SJ were the celebrants of the day.


Young and old and children, lined up to to be signed with the "Karikkurissu" with fervor while the congregation sang,

"Manushya nee mannakunnu
Mannilekku madangum noonam.
Anuthapa kannuneer veezhthy
Papa pariharam cheythukolka nee...."

The celebration was marked by a solemn High Mass, and the congregation sang songs indicating the beginning of Lent.

The double formula of the prayers of the penitential rite for the beginning of Lent, is itself an indicator of this twofold movement: the verse, "Remember, man, that you are dust and into dust you shall return" (from Gen 3:19) states the problem, that on our own we are weak and will fall an easy prey to the Evil One, and the verse, "Repent and believe the Gospel" (Mk 1:15) gives us the solution, that, as we rely on God’s mercy, we will be released from sin; and that, as we trust in the Spirit’s power, we will be renewed from within. This turning away from sin and turning towards the Lord will bring about a turning over in our lives - a change of heart, and consequently a change of lifestyle.

Lent is the time of abstinance. Our ancestors abstained from many things during Lenten season, like meat, liquors, smoking ...and lot many other things. Any kind of abstinance during the days of Lent give us strength to fight evil.

It is also mandatory in the whole Church to abstain from meat on Lenten Fridays; it is mandatory for all members, children and adults alike. Let us be channels of faith, by handing over the traditions we have received from our ancestors.