By Gerry D’Mello

Daijiworld Network- Canada

Toronto, May 22: A dynamic Catholic priest born in Mangaluru region and a renowned preacher Fr Henry Alva OFM Cap has been elected as the provincial of the Franciscan Capuchins of ‘Mary Mother of Good Shepherd’ province, in the English speaking central Canada region on May 19.

Fr Henry Alva is the 8th child born to Camil and Juan Alva from Pamboor parish in the diocese of Udupi, Karnataka, India. It is a great joy for his mother who is 92 to have one of her sons to have as provincial of Capuchins in Canada and have her daughter Sr Anita Alva as the provincial of the Missionary Sisters of Immaculate in Siliguri in North India. Fr Henry is also the brother of famed Konkani personalities Vincy Pamboor back home and Donald Alva in Canada.

Fr Henry Alva studied at St Aloysius College, Mangaluru, completed his formation for priesthood with the Capuchins and was ordained in 1987. He served as a missionary in Papua New Guinea for 12 years and as the Rector of ‘Deena Seva Ashram’ – Institute of Philosophy, Bengaluru for 6 years.

Fr Henry Alva has been in Canada for the past 9 years. He is well known for his dedicated spiritual services for Capuchins, various parishes and prayer groups and especially for the Konkani community in Canada. By profession he is a counsellor. He is an experienced family and marriage therapist and helps many families. He also teaches counselling at Toronto Institute of Pastoral Counselling Education.

Fr Henry Alva became the first priest who preached Lenten Retreat in Konkani organized by the Mangalurean Association of Canada during lent 6 years ago. He is a very popular personality in Canada not only amongst communities of Indian origin but also with the faithful of different nationalities. His loveable nature and inspiring homilies are liked by people. He is truly a great gift for youth in Canada who always guides them to a right path based on gospel values.