Dubai : Konkani Community Extends Hearty Farewell to Fr Freddy D’Souza
Media Release by Jerina Lewis
Dubai, Aug 28: Friday August 27 evening happened to be gloomy for the largest Konkani Prayer Group, ‘Jesus Mary Joseph’ (JMJ), of St Mary’s Church Dubai, as they extended a snivelling farewell to their spiritual director, Fr Freddy D’Souza.
Oswald Fernandes, main coordinator of JMJ, hailed Fr Freddy’s devoted service to all the parishioners and organizations functioning under Dubai church, as well as his selfless services to a number of Konkan associations spread over Dubai. Oswald also extolled Fr Freddy’s commitment in serving the Konkani masses in various parishes like Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, Fujairah and Jebel Ali. As Oswald continued his narration, a brief slide show was presented simultaneously, on Fr Freddy’s numerous accomplishments in Dubai.
Jerina Lewis, JMJ core member, presented a bouquet to Fr Freddy as a token of appreciation. This was followed by entire JMJ core committee collectively offering a parting gift to their favourite spiritual director.
Fr Freddy, in his departure speech, thanked all the members of JMJ prayer group for their love and support. He thanked all the members, saying that their devotion has strengthened his faith and enhanced his prayer life. Fr Freddy assured that JMJ members will always remain in his heart, and requested their prayerful support for his further successful mission in Bahrain.
Lawrence D’Souza, advisor of JMJ, performed prayers for Fr Freddy’s wellbeing, and professionally conducted this emotional farewell event. JMJ choir members harmoniously rendered a hymn as their goodbye tribute to the Spiritual Shepherd.
Fr Freddy had arrived in Dubai on the November 19, 2005, to serve as an assistant parish priest of St Mary’s Church Dubai, which is considered to be one of the largest parishes in the world. Fr Freddy instantly took charge as the spiritual director of Konkani community and various Konkani organizations in Dubai. With his affability, easilily approachable functioning style, efficiency and simplicity, Fr Freddy quickly won the admiration of the community and became a household name, not only among the parishioners of Konkani community but in all other communities of St Mary’s Church.
Fr Freddy D’Souza will be leaving St Mary’s Church Dubai on September 1, 2010, to continue his mission further at Sacred Heart Church, Bahrain. JMJ Konkani Prayer Group will miss him immensely, but Fr Freddy will always be remembered in their prayers for success in his future mission and all endeavours.