Bahrain: 41st Ordination Anniversary Celebration of Rt Rev. Msgr Baptist Menezes

By Joel DSa
Bellevision Media Network

Manama, Bahrain, 28 Oct 2015: 25th October was an auspicious day for the people of Udupi & Mangalore Dioceses in the Kingdom of Bahrain as they had the opportunity to celebrate the 41st Ordination Anniversary of the Vicar General of the Diocese of Udupi, Rt Rev. Msgr Baptist Menezes.

 

He is in this beautiful island on the invitation of much respected couple in the Kingdom of Bahrain- Simon & Prescilla Machado with his sister and respected Rev. Fr Alban D’souza, the Parish Priest of Stella Maris Church at Kalmady.

 

The day started with the solemn Eucharistic Celebration at 10.30 am in the Mother Church of Sacred Heart Parish, concelebrated by Fr Alban and Fr. Freddy D’souza, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Church, Bahrain with around 200 people in participation.

 

The happiness was doubled as Simon and Prescilla Machado were celebrating their 26th Wedding anniversary as well.
A grand reception was held at the Papillon Party Hall to celebrate both the special occasions and events.  Master of ceremony, Shawn Machado (Son of Simon & Prescilla) welcomed all the guests and dignitaries, and the felicitation function started with a beautiful welcome dance by children of families from “Jolly Friends”.

 

 

Fr Alban D’souza raised the toast in honor of Msgr Baptist Menezes chronicling the entire journey of his priesthood, achievements and dedicated service to the Church and community. While replying to the toast, Msgr Baptist Menezes thanked all those who were present and especially Simon and Prescilla Machado and his family for the grand surprise of a celebration and function which he never expected even dreamt of. He also said that priesthood is God’s greatest gift to humanity because being mediators between God and human beings, they are consecrated to bring Jesus to people and take the prayers of people to Him, dispensing also Christ’s sacraments to us. He added by saying that every priest receives so much of love, care, respect, protection and esteem only because they are priests of Christ and therefore what they are and receive is also because of the Church. He publically acclaimed, admitted and admired the generous contribution of people towards the Church because of the Catholic Faith in which they are so firmly rooted and advised the youth to unite themselves for Jesus and His church by continue to become witnesses of His Gospel.

 

He explained his experiences as Director of Fr. Muller Charitable Institutions of the strength he got from God and His Divine Mercy especially during his days of ill-health which he underwent. He admitted that if he was alive today, it was indeed the miracle of Divine Mercy that has touched him through the recitation of Mercy Rosary in which he firmly believed and continues to and ever since has begun to promote it.

 

The function consisted of many dances, comedy skits, songs and mime acting which were enjoyed by all present.

 

At the end, Mr Joel D’sa thanked all who made this event memorable, enjoyable and successful. He especially thanked the Jolly Friends and the force behind these celebrations Mr & Mrs Simon and Prescilla Machado and family for their all-out interest, generosity and effort in the planning and execution of these celebrations.

 

A grand and tasty buffet lunch was served to the gathering. It was indeed a memorable and grand event meticulously planned and carried out to the joy and happiness of all.