Mangalore Diocese News

Report & Photography : Meena Serrao Barboza

Mangaluru, Dec 5 : On December 3rd, 2023, the St. Francis Xavier Ward of St Lawrence Church - Bondel celebrated its annual ward feast in honour of their patron, St. Francis Xavier.

The day commenced with 7 a.m. Mass celebrated by the Rev. Fr. Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St. Lawrence English Medium School. During the Mass, he delivered an inspiring homily. A significant number of the ward’s residents attended the Mass, showing their deep devotion and respect for their patron saint. The liturgy was conducted by ward members.

A festive celebration took place at Wood Haven Apartment Hall with a ward meeting and games on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 5.30 p.m The programme began with a prayer song invoking God's blessings and with a welcome dance by the kids. Mrs. Victoria D'Cunha (Ward Gurkarn) welcomed the gathering. Mrs. Sharlet Sequiera presented the annual report of the ward’s activities, describing the various initiatives of the ward during the year. Rev. Fr. Andrew Leo Dsouza Parish Priest , Mr John D’Silva Vice President Parish Pastoral Council  , Mr Santhosh Misquith Secretory  Parish Pastoral  Council , Mrs Victoria D’Cunha ward Gurkarn  were on the dais.

Mr. Rosario Dmello, a senior citizen, Miss Deona Alvares Studious, a student, and a sportsperson were felicitated on this occasion. The introduction for the felicitation was done by Mrs Meena Barboza & Mrs Olivia Dsa.

In his address, Rev. Fr. Andrew Leo D'Souza said we are all called to reflect on the examples and the faith that St. Francis Xavier exhibited. He outlined the life history of the saint and his call to priesthood through the intervention of St. Ignatius of Loyola, who convinced Francis to give up his own plans and open his mind to God's will. Thus, Francis Xavier became the co-founder of the society of Jesuits. He expressed his joy and pride over the achievements of the ward members.

Mr John D'Silva, Vice President Parish Pastoral Council  wished everyone a Happy Feast and appreciated the service of the ward members.

Parish Pastoral Council Secretary Mr. Santhosh Misquith said in his speech that St. Francis Xavier had dedicated his life to the service of God and to the proclamation of the Good News. St. Francis Xavier and the many other innumerable saints had shown us their faith and light of God’s truth. May God bless our every work and effort and help us to persevere ever more faithfully in all the things we do for the greater glory of His Name. We appreciate the ward people for their unity at all levels in the ward as well as in the parish.

Members of the ward and children entertained the guests with music, songs, dances, and games. Games were conducted by Mrs. Preemarose and Mrs. Anandhi Fernandes, and prizes were distributed to the winners. Mrs. Jane Sequiera compered   the programme, and Mrs. Veena Dias proposed the formal vote of thanks.

The programme concluded with a hymn dedicated to St. Francis Xavier. It was an evening full of fun that ended with a fellowship meal followed by the baila dance.