As the formal introduction was read out to welcome the parishioners and guests, ‘the titular Feast of the Queen of the Holy Rosary, the Patron of our parish, holds a special place in our hearts, serving as a poignant reminder of our spiritual journey and devotion to Mary, our patroness. This annual celebration brings together our community in a tapestry of faith, hope, and love’.
The Choir of Church at its usual best to sing the entrance hymn ‘Vandan Tuka Somiya’, as the celebrants entered the well decorated Church in a colourful procession, with brass band, at 10.30 am led by Very Rev Fr Denis DSa, the main celebrant. It was a working day and many were duty bound, nevertheless there was no dearth for enthusiasm, devotion and joy, as the Church was almost full to its capacities.
While breaking the word of God, Rev Fr Denis DSa focussed on the main theme ‘Mother Mary’s Life of prayer, ‘as we gathered to honour the Blessed Virgin, we reflect on her unwavering guidance and the power of prayer, particularly through the Rosary.
‘This titular feast on 7th October, 2024, not only deepens our connection to Mary but also strengthens our bonds with one another, creating a space for shared grace and communal support. Together, we celebrate our faith, our heritage, and the profound impact of the prayers in our lives’. He further explained various forms of prayers, including silent prayer which was very powerful to seek God. While concluding Fr DSa summarised the whole life of Mother Mary that of prayers – in thoughts, words and actions – “Behold the handmaid of the Lord: be it done unto me, according to Thy word…”
Pirjenth, the main sponsors for the Titular Feast, Mr Reiner and Mrs Namya DSouza – Fatima Ward, made elaborate arrangements – the decoration, live telecast of the Holy Mass, melodious Sunshine Brass Band, Cake and soft drinks etc, were acknowledged by the Vicar and deservedly thanked with decorated candle.
Rev Dr Roque DSouza, the Parish Priest thanked everyone for their cooperation and coordination – the Choir, Liturgy Ayog led by Sr Ancilla DMello, Altar servers, the youth and Gurkars and all pious organisations and laity leadership…
As informed by the Parish Priest earlier, the offering / collections during the Holy Mass will be credited to ‘Parish Medical Fund’.
The main celebrant of the High Mass Very Rev Fr Denis DSa native of our parish was felicitated on his 60th Birthday and congratulated on being nominated to CBCI, Commission for Ecumenism, as Member by both Vicar Rev Dr Roque DSouza accompanied by Assistant Rev Fr Oliver Nazareth with decorated candle and bouquet on this occasion.
‘The Feast of the Queen of the Holy Rosary, celebrated annually on October 7th, is a significant event in our community, honouring our patroness’. Vicar General of the Diocese, Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves expressed his happiness to be a part of the celebrations of this fast growing parish as parishioners attended the Mass and related events, showcasing strong community involvement. The celebration not only strengthened our devotion to Mary but also reinforced the importance of prayer in our lives. He appreciated the leadership of Vicar and his assistant, SRA Sisters, cohesive Choir team, role and involvement of youth in the Deanery and Diocese, the parish magazine ‘Rozaricho Gaanch’ etc. in his crispy message to the faithful.
Many attendees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather in faith. The Feast of the Queen of the Holy Rosary was a profound celebration that united our community in prayer and fellowship. It served as a reminder of our patroness’s guidance.
Reported by: P. Archibald Furtado Photographs: Mr Praveen Cutinho.