Report& Photography: Meena Serrao Barboza
Mangaluru, Sep 29: The Bondel Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) celebrated the feast of their patron, St Vincent de Paul, with great devotion and community spirit on Sunday. The celebration began with a Eucharistic Mass at 7 am at St Lawrence Church, Bondel, presided over by Fr William D'Souza. The liturgy was conducted by members of the SVP society.
Following the Mass, a short programme was held at St Lawrence English Medium School Auditorium at 8:30 a.m. The event commenced with a prayer, with Naveen Correa leading the Word of God, followed by a reflection delivered by Fr William D'Souza. In the presence of Fr William D'Souza, two new members, Prakash Pinto and Gratian Lobo, took an oath, administered by him.
Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, Fr William D'Souza, assistant parish priest, John D'Silva, vice president, Santhosh Misquith, secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, Neris Dias, president of SVP, Naveen Correa, secretary, and Shiny Monteiro, treasurer of SVP, were present on the dais.
A warm welcome was extended to each guest by Neris Dias, president of SVP Bondel. The society's secretary, Naveen Correa, presented the annual report, highlighting the organisation's accomplishments. Ronald Lasrado gave a brief overview of the society's 49 years of humanitarian efforts, focusing on helping underprivileged families. Beneficiaries of SVP's aid, Lorita Fernandes and Lakshmi, expressed their sincere appreciation for the society's support during difficult times.
In his address, Fr William D'Souza congratulated the new members and emphasized the importance of SVP’s mission in the parish, urging attendees to support and consider joining the society. He reminded the congregation that SVP's work embodies God's mission by serving the needy.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Sandeep Misquith. Ronald Lasrado skillfully emceed the programme. Refreshments were served to all attendees. The programme ended with all SVP members singing the patron's hymn of gratitude.