Kuwait: Belwak celebrates parish feast

Media Release

Kuwait, 10 May 2010: The parishioners of Belman Welfare Association Kuwait (BELWAK) along with family and friends celebrated the feast of their patron, Saint Joseph the Worker, for the seventh consecutive year with much fanfare. A spirit of joy fascinated the gathering on the feast day at the Don Bosco School Auditorium on Friday May 7, 2010.

President Jerome D’Souza welcomed the Guest of Honor, Rev. Fr. John Harry D’Souza, Sponsors Mr. Harold D’Souza, Mr. Lawrence Pinto, Baby Venissa & Vianna Pinto. Also welcomed was Social activist Mr. Louis Rodrigues and prominent well wishers Mr. Francis Menezes and Mr. Harry Edward D’Souza.

Earlier, Vinitha D’Souza led the gathering with a thanksgiving prayer. Joint Secretary Johnson Almeida read the Annual Report. This report dwelt on the notable works carried out by BELWAK over the past year in aid of the poor and the needy. Rev. Fr. Harry together with BELWAK’s Committee Members cut the festive cake, an outward sign of sharing the sweetness and happiness with one and all.

Guest of Honor, the charismatic preacher Rev. Fr John Harry D’Souza gave the festive message. The highlights of his message were a reflection on the life of Saint Joseph the Worker. The Gospel of St. Mathew describes Saint Joseph as the "just" man". Rev. Fr. Harry applauded the efforts of Belman Welfare Association Kuwait for their charitable works and prayed that BELWAK continues to tread the path it has chosen for many more years to come.

Entertainment galore held sway. Folk dances, mimicry, skit and jokes by United Mangaloreans Kuwait (UMK) were fun and entertaining. Child Artistes Baby Jane D’Sa, Baby Danica Monteiro and Baby Jolita Fernandes were excellent in solo dance. Also entertaining was the performance of Vinitha D’Souza and Group. The games for both children and adults were fun-filled as well. DJ Mario’s music captivated the gathering to the very end.

Since inception, each year, BELWAK brings to the limelight both men and women who have selflessly contributed to society. This day, BELWAK honored with a momento, a well deserved woman Mrs. Helen D’Souza of Mukamar/Belman parish for her moral support to the impoverished in Kuwait and for her service towards the community at-large. Also honored was Mr. John Fernandes for his continuous and unwavering support for the betterment of the community.

President Jerome D’Souza traditionally offered the jar of water as a call for one and all to come and feast (lunch). Rev. Fr. Harry thanked God Almighty for his bountiful gifts to humankind in his prayer. Soon after lunch, Raffle Draw was conducted by Ex President Clifford D’Souza. Consultant Mr. Francis Menezes continued with the spot games and also conducted Housie Housie.

Vice President, Mr. Anil Nazareth proposed the vote of thanks. He thanked the sponsors, guests, and all the committee members for their team effort in staging an impressive festive celebration.

The talented Jayson Lasrado was at his usual best as compere of the feast day celebration.