Moodubelle, 03 Jul 2013: The feast of St. Thomas, the Apostle of India was celebrated by the members of St. Thomas II Ward on Wednesday July 3, 2012 at the residence of Daniel-Helen Castelino. The feast mass was concelebrated by Fr. Paul Sequeira, principal of St. Lawrence PU College and Fr. Raj, principal of St. Lawrence English Medium High School at 5pm. Nearly 80 members of the ward participated in the Holy Eucharist and the function that followed. Sr. Irene, Superior of Loreto Convent and Sr. Lavina were also present for the ward feast.
In his homily, Fr. Paul narrated the role of St. Thomas as an apostle and missionary to India. By quoting from the Gospel, Fr. Paul highlighted the doubt that St. Thomas had expressed about the resurrection of Jesus and how Jesus solved his doubt by personally asking him to feel his wounds that He had suffered on the Cross which led to the profession of faith by St. Thomas, “My Lord and my God” and answer of Jesus “You have seen me and believed, blessed are those who do not see but still believe..”
Following the mass, a short stage programme was held. Mrs. Thereza Alva, Gurkarn of the ward welcomed the guests with flowers and also all the ward members. Mrs. Jannet Castelino, secretary of the ward read the last year’s report of the ward.
In their messages, Sr. Irene, Fr. Raj and Fr. Paul extended warm greetings of the patron saint to all the members of the ward. Fr. Paul made the gathering to sing a ‘Mando’ to the delight of all. Young and small children presented dance programme directed by Miss Flora Alva. A skit was also presented by the children.
Mrs. Juliana Quadros presented Konkani song “Juliana…”. Smilarly, Robert D’Souza also sang a song which brought forth their penchant for singing.
Fr. Raj and Fr. Paul felicitated the children who had presented dance items with gifts.
Fr. Paul and Fr. Raj presented a rose to Mrs. Thereza Alva, the Gurkarn of the ward in appreciation of her leadership in organizing the ward feast in a grand manner. Similarly, Fr. Paul and Sr. Irene presented a flower to Daniel Castelino, the host of the ward feast.
Peter D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks. Robert D’Souza compeered the programme. The celebration of the ward feast ended with sumptuous dinner prepared by the ward members themselves under the direction of Mr. Charles Quadros.