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Senior Citizens’ Day joyfully celebrated at Bondel Parish by SVP!

On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the Society of St Vincent de Paul at St. Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, joyfully celebrated Senior Citizens’ Day.
The Eucharistic celebration began at 11:00 a.m. and was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, with Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza (Parish Priest) and Rev. Fr Denis D’Souza, retired former Parish Priest, as concelebrants
The liturgy was beautifully led by the Senior Citizens and SVP members, while the church choir, along with SVP members, enhanced the solemnity of the occasion with their melodious singing

Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, presided over the Eucharistic celebration and delivered a heartfelt homily. He emphasized the themes of love, mercy, and forgiveness, reminding the faithful that in this Jubilee Year, we are all pilgrims preparing ourselves to encounter Jesus. Quoting Pope Francis, he urged the congregation to reach out to those who have strayed, to welcome them back, and to restore their dignity in society. He also highlighted the invaluable role of senior citizens, describing them as a source of joy and a true blessing within the family.

The short cultural program commenced immediately after the Mass, beginning with a prayerful request for blessings from the Bishop, the Parish Priest, the former Parish Priest, and the elders. Mr Ronald Lasrado officially inaugurated the event, followed by Mr Naveen Correa, who extended a traditional welcome to all by offering panpod and udak as a gesture of hospitality. Mr  Neris Dias, President of SVP, warmly welcomed the gathering.
Dignitaries graced the dais and were received with great admiration and respect from the audience. Each esteemed guest was welcomed with warmth and elegance, as SVP members honored them with a beautiful bouquet of flowers—a symbol of gratitude and appreciation
The dais was graced by the esteemed presence of Most Rev. Dr  Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza (Parish Priest), Rev, Fr William Dsouza, Asst PP, Rev. Fr  Peter Gonsalves, Rev. Fr  Denis D’Souza (Retired Former Parish Priest), Mr  John D’Silva (Vice President, Parish Pastoral Council), Mr  Santhosh Misquith (Secretary, Parish Pastoral Council), Mr  Neris Dias (President, SVP), and Mr  Naveen Correa (SVP Member).

Most Rev. Dr  Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, in his message, congratulated the SVP members for organizing Senior Citizens’ Day. He acknowledged the invaluable presence of senior elders, referring to them as the true ornaments of our families and communities. He emphasized that their wisdom, service, and suggestions deserve a place of honor and respect in both families and society. He urged everyone to respect them with love and gratitude. Addressing the senior citizens, he encouraged them to be thankful to God for the gift of life and health, to remain joyful, and to lead a prayerful life

Spiritual Director Rev. Fr  Andrew Leo D’Souza, in his address, urged everyone to love and respect their elders and senior citizens, emphasizing the importance of showing them genuine care and honor. He also requested the senior members to continue praying for the parish clergy. Additionally, he congratulated the members of the Society of St  Vincent de Paul for their outstanding service and unwavering dedication

Rev. Fr  Denis D’Souza led the gathering in a prayer of thanksgiving before the meal.

Several senior members of the parish were honored during the program. Mr and Mrs  Cyril Monthi D’Souza from Carmel Ward, who have completed 63 years of married life, were recognized as a senior wedding couple. All aged 90, Mr  Anthony Lobo from St. Joseph Ward, Mr  Alphonso Saldanha from St  Thomas Ward, Rev. Fr  Denis D’Souza, and Mrs  Lorene Monteiro from St  Thomas Ward were honored with bouquets and gifts as a token of love and appreciation. Additionally, Mrs Dulcine D’Souza from St  Ann Ward was awarded a prize for winning the quiz competition.

The program was compered by Mr  Ronald Lasrado, who captivated the audience not only with his eloquence but also with his melodious voice. Mr Naveen Correa delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the event.

A large gathering of senior citizens from the parish came together for the fellowship meal, cherishing moments of joy, companionship, and heartfelt gratitude.