Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 5: The St Francis Xavier Ward celebrated its annual ward feast in honour of their patron, St Francis Xavier on December 3.
The day commenced with a mass celebrated by the Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal of St Lawrence English Medium School. During the Mass, he delivered an inspiring homily. A significant number of the ward’s residents attended the Mass, showing their deep devotion and respect for their patron saint. The liturgy was conducted by ward members.
A festive celebration took place at Wood Haven Apartment Hall with a ward meeting and games on December 3. The programme began with a prayer song invoking God's blessings with a welcome dance by the kids. Victoria D'Cunha (ward gurkarn) welcomed the gathering. Sharlet Sequiera presented the annual report of the ward’s activities, describing the various initiatives of the ward during the year. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza parish priest, John D’Silva vice president Parish Pastoral Council, Santhosh Misquith secretory Parish Pastoral Council, Victoria D’Cunha ward gurkarn were on dais.
Rosario D’Mello, a senior citizen, Deona Alvares Studious, a student, and a sportsperson were felicitated on this occasion. The introduction was done by Meena Barboza and Olivia D’Sa who had been felicitated.
In his address, Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza said we are all called to reflect on the examples and the faith that St Francis Xavier exhibited. He outlined the life history of the saint and his call to priesthood through the intervention of St Ignatius of Loyola, who convinced Francis to give up his own plans and open his mind to God's will. Thus, Francis Xavier became the co-founder of the society of Jesuits. He expressed his joy and pride over the achievements of the ward members.
John D’Silva vice president Parish Pastoral Council wished everyone a happy feast and appreciated the service of the ward members.
Parish Pastoral Council secretary Santhosh Misquith said, “St Francis Xavier had dedicated his life to the service of God and to the proclamation of the Good News. St Francis Xavier and the many other innumerable saints had shown us their faith and light of God’s truth. May God bless our every work and effort and help us to persevere ever more faithfully in all the things we do for the greater glory of his name. We appreciate the ward people for their unity at all levels in the ward as well as in the parish."
The members of the ward and children entertained the guests with music, songs, dances, and games. Games were conducted by Preemarose and Anandhi Fernandes, and prizes were distributed to the winners. Jane Sequeira compered the programme, and Veena Dias proposed the formal vote of thanks.
The programme concluded with a hymn dedicated to St Francis Xavier. It was an evening full of fun that ended with a fellowship meal followed by the baila dance.