Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte Prays for Students as Examinations Approach
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Mangaluru, February 21, 2026: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte organized a special prayer service on February 21, 2026, invoking God’s blessings upon students appearing for their forthcoming examinations. The programme was aimed at spiritually strengthening students, encouraging disciplined and ethical study habits, and offering reassurance to parents and teachers during a period that is often marked by anxiety and pressure.
The serene atmosphere of the Shrine was filled with devotion as students, parents, teachers, and devotees gathered in large numbers. One of the distinctive features of the Infant Jesus Shrine is its spirit of inclusiveness. People visit this Shrine irrespective of religion, caste, language, or social background. Over the years, devotees belonging to different faith traditions have found solace and inspiration here. Christians, Hindus, Muslims, and people of other beliefs regularly visit the Shrine seeking peace, strength, healing, and divine guidance. This universal appeal was clearly visible during the prayer service, as families from diverse backgrounds joined together with a shared intention for the well being and success of children.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by John Pinto, OCD, who delivered a thoughtful and compassionate homily. Reflecting on the realities faced by students today, he observed that examinations often create stress not only for children but also for parents and teachers. He reminded the gathering that while academic achievement is important, it should never come at the cost of mental peace, moral values, or physical health.
Addressing the students, Fr John Pinto encouraged them to cultivate disciplined habits by preparing a realistic personal timetable and following it with sincerity. He stressed the importance of regular study, timely revision, and adequate rest. He urged students to approach examinations with calmness and confidence rather than fear. Drawing from spiritual wisdom, he explained that faith in the Universal Power that governs the universe enables individuals to rise above anxiety and self doubt.
He emphasized that faith is not blind dependence but a source of inner strength that inspires responsibility, perseverance, and right conduct. According to him, believing in the infinite intelligence that governs the universe helps individuals align their thoughts and actions in a positive direction. When faith is combined with sincere effort and ethical actions, it becomes a powerful force that leads to success and fulfillment. His words resonated deeply with students and parents alike, offering reassurance and hope.
Following the Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration was held in an atmosphere of deep silence and prayerful reflection. Special prayers were offered for students preparing for examinations, for parents who support them with dedication and sacrifice, and for teachers who guide and shape young minds. This time of adoration allowed the faithful to pause, reflect, and entrust their concerns and aspirations to God.
One of the most touching moments of the programme was the anointing and blessing of the children. Each student was anointed with holy oil and individually blessed, invoking God’s grace, wisdom, and guidance upon their academic journey. Parents watched with visible emotion as their children received the blessings. For many families, this moment symbolized reassurance, hope, and renewed confidence as they entrusted the future of their children into God’s loving care.
Addressing the gathering after the service, Stifan Perera, OCD, Director of the Shrine, extended his heartfelt best wishes to all students appearing for their examinations. He encouraged them to face their academic challenges with honesty, confidence, and perseverance. He reminded them that true success is not measured only by marks or ranks, but by the values they uphold and the integrity they display in life. He also acknowledged the vital role played by parents and teachers in nurturing and guiding students.
The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by Wilson Tauro, OCD, Vocation Promoter, whose presence added to the spiritual richness of the occasion. Together, the priests highlighted the importance of prayer, guidance, and moral formation in shaping young lives, especially during crucial academic phases.
The prayer service held special significance as the year has been declared the Year of the Children by the Diocese of Mangalore. In this context, the programme stood as a meaningful expression of the Church’s concern for children and young people, recognizing them as the hope of the future and emphasizing the need for holistic care that includes intellectual, emotional, moral, and spiritual growth.
The Infant Jesus Shrine has consistently organized such prayer services at the beginning of the academic year and during examination periods. These initiatives reflect the Shrine’s enduring commitment to supporting students through prayer and pastoral care. Many students and parents have shared that such moments of prayer provide peace of mind, renewed motivation, and clarity during demanding academic times.
A defining characteristic of the Shrine is its universal outlook. People from different walks of life and religious traditions visit the Shrine regularly, especially on Thursdays and during special novenas. Many are drawn not by formal religious affiliation but by a deep belief in a Universal Power and the compassionate presence symbolized by the Infant Jesus. This openness has made the Shrine a spiritual home where human hopes and struggles find expression beyond boundaries of religion or caste.
Faith, at its core, is about trusting the Universal Power that governs the conduct of the universe. Whether one fully understands it or not, an infinite intelligence guides creation and human destiny. By believing in this higher power, individuals are able to draw inner strength, resilience, and clarity of purpose. Faith offers courage during fear, patience during uncertainty, and direction during moments of confusion.
At the same time, the message emphasized throughout the programme was that faith must always be accompanied by ethical actions. Honesty in examinations, discipline in preparation, respect for parents and teachers, and responsibility towards society are essential values. When belief is united with right conduct and sincere effort, it becomes a transformative force that leads not only to academic success but also to meaningful and responsible living.
The active participation of students, parents, and teachers highlighted the strong bond between the Shrine and the wider community. Their presence reflected a shared understanding that education is not merely about intellectual achievement, but about forming character and nurturing values that guide individuals throughout life. The atmosphere was filled with calm assurance and renewed hope. Students left the Shrine with confidence and peace of mind, parents with trust and reassurance, and teachers with encouragement to continue their mission. Once again, the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, reaffirmed its role as a centre of faith, inclusiveness, encouragement, and spiritual guidance, reminding all that when faith, effort, and ethical living come together, success naturally follows.
