Report: Edward Coelho

Mangaluru, Jul 26: Members of Kapikad ward, Derebail Church, along with the ward Gurkar, Juliana Coelho, Fr Joseph Martis, and Fr Kevin Lawrence D’Souza, assistant parish priest, gathered for a ward meeting at the residence of Winnie Rego, 'Regal House,' on Sunday, July 21 at 5:30 PM.

Following the meeting, the ward members celebrated the monsoon season delicacies by sharing various homemade dishes. Around 21 dishes were served. Special guests included parish priest Fr Joseph Martis, Fr Kevin Lawrence D’Souza, Bro Chinna Swami, Sr Juliana Tellis, Sr Maria Aranha, and Sacristan Prinsen.

Ward Gurkar Juliana Coelho gave an introductory speech, while Winnie Rego warmly welcomed the gathering. Immediate Past Gurkar Edward Coelho conducted the meeting as Prerak. A notable incident of robbery had occurred in the ward at Victor Mendonca’s house a week prior. The Gurkar recounted the incident, commending the courage of Patricia Mendonca, who was honored with a shawl and flowers by the priests.

The priests, Fr Joseph Martis and Fr Kevin Lawrence D’Souza, also honoured Clary Coelho, Sandesh Mascarenhas, Manual Monis, Edward Coelho, and Ward Gurkar Juliana Coelho, who swiftly responded to assist the family during the burglary-robbery. Fr Joseph Martis praised the ward members for their support, unity, visits, prayers, and the bravery of Patricia and the ward leaders, highlighting their exemplary Christian conduct.

Sylvester D’Cunha, ward secretary, proposed a vote of thanks and listed the 21 dishes along with their chefs. Fr Kevin Lawrence D’Souza concluded the meeting with prayers, invoking blessings on the food and the attending families, and inaugurated the delicacies. The food was enjoyed by all.

The celebration was a grand success, bringing happiness and smiles on everyone’s faces despite the recent ordeal. Fifty members attended the meeting.