Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (EP)

Mumbai, Nov 21: A friendly get-together of St John the Evangelist Church, Pangla was held as part of its centenary celebrations at Hotel Kohinoor Continental auditorium Andheri East here in the evening on November 19. Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, parish priest said that Pangla, the land of Jasmine is on the path of progress.

Fr Rony Fernandes Pangla, parish priest of St Louis Church Dahisar, Dr Grace Pinto, managing director of Rayan International Group of Institutes, John Rodrigues, vice president of Pangla church parish pastoral council, Gabriel Martis, member, Rafael Noronha, president, St John Catholic Association, Pangla Mumbai, Henry Lobo, former president, CCCI and George Castelino, co-organizer of the programme were on the dais.

“There has been local growth and progress because of the construction of a church at Pangla and most of the church congregation is educated. It has also helped to obtain global recognition for the Pangla variety of Jasmine,” said Fr Rony Fernandes.

Programme chief organizer, president of Aldel Education trust Mumbai and Model Bank president Albert W D’ Souza welcomed, and spoke about the hundred year long service of the church and local growth.

Christian Chamber of Commerce and Industries president John Mathew, John D’ Silva, Vincent Mathais, advocate Pius Vas, Lawrence D’ Souza Mulund and other dignitaries were present. Fredrick Martis, Alvina D’ Souza, Elaina Buthelho, Dr Aldridge D’ Souza, and others were present. George Castelino and Henry Lobo spoke as per context and explained the way they grew up.

Abraham Clement Lobo and Dr Reuben W Buthelho compered the programme. Albert W D’Souza and other dignitaries honoured the guests and proposed a vote of thanks.