Year of St. Francis – Declaration of St. Clare of Assisi Church, Pothnal as a Pilgrimage Centre for Plenary Indulgence:
On the occasion of the 800th death anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi (1226–2026), a solemn program was organized at St. Clare of Assisi Church, Pothnal, on 22 March 2026. During this significant event, the church was officially declared a pilgrimage centre for obtaining Plenary Indulgence. The Most Rev. Dr. Henry D’Souza, Bishop of the Diocese of Bellary, celebrated the Solemn Holy Eucharist and presided over an interreligious dialogue. The dialogue included Maulana Shami, Imam of Pothnal Mosque; Swami Basavaraj Tata of Uchha Boodeshwar Matha, Pothnal; and Mr. Venkana Pastor, along with the faithful of Pothnal Parish. In his keynote address, the Bishop elaborated on the divine life and sacrificial spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. He highlighted that St. Francis was a great lover of nature, showing deep compassion toward animals and birds. He emphasized the saint’s commitment to interreligious harmony and his belief that compassion is the foundation of true religion. He further stated that all religions are fundamentally one, and that all human beings are equal, without discrimination based on caste or creed.

Representing the Muslim community, Maulana Shami, Imam of Pothnal Mosque, conveyed that all religions promote the message of peace and love. He stressed the importance of unity and equality among all people. Swami Basavaraj Tata of Uchha Boodeshwar Matha, Pothnal, addressed the gathering and noted that the Constitution provides freedom to practice any religion. He emphasized that faith, belief, love, and trust form the essence of religion, and encouraged people to follow the path of truth while avoiding superstition. Fr. Sathish Fernandes, Guardian of Clara Vihar, expressed his gratitude to the Bishop of Bellary for declaring St. Clare Church, associated with the Franciscan tradition, as a pilgrimage centre. He also felicitated the bishop and honoured the religious leaders present on the dais. The program was attended by Fr. Prashanth, Fr. Sunil, Fr. Jason Roy, and a large number of faithful. The event concluded with a strong message of unity, peace, and communal harmony among all religions.

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