By Sr Molly Fernandes SFN
Sancoale, Aug 5: On August 5, a joyful and historic day, marked by the celebration of a “letter of bondage” from St Joseph Vaz, at the Eucharistic celebration in the evening at 4 pm, a large gathering witnessed the release of a new book.
The book was officially unveiled by Fr Kenneth Teles, the parish priest of Sancoale and episcopal vicar of South Goa, in the presence of Fr Peter, Christopher, Celso Fernandes, and Vincy Quadros, Sr Mariquinha, Sr Libia and an august gathering. The release “Jinnentle Ulhas” is a collection of articles by Sr Molly Fernandes SFN.
Fr Peter Britto, who introduced the release of this, Sr Molly’s second book, highlighted her multifaceted contributions. “We all know Sr Molly,” he said, noting “despite her religious work, she also contributes a lot to the literary field”. He praised her skills as a writer and journalist in both English and Konkani, and her current role as the directress of the Holy Family Communication Centre in Sancoale.
Sr Molly, known for her contributions to both religious and literary fields, shared that her book was the fruit of prayer.
When asked she was all praise to "God for all His goodness, for giving her the zeal and strength to work in His vineyard as a nun for 35 years, and especially for the gift of communicating not only to a few but through the medium of writing to connect with a vast number of people all over the world."
She expressed her gratitude as she spoke, to all who made the publication possible, including:
• Fr Kenneth Teles, for agreeing to release the book.
• Fr Ave Maria Afonso, for writing the foreword.
• Celso Fernandes, president of the Dalgado Konknni Akademi, who wrote the author’s introduction.
• Edvin Fernandes, who encouraged her to prepare the book.
• Sr Berna Rodrigues and her counsellors, for giving permission to publish the book.
• Michael D’Souza of the Vision Konkani Pustok Anudan Foundation, for his financial support.
• Andrew D’Souza, the printer, and Socorinha Noronha of Mylah Prokaxon, for their roles in publishing the book.
The gathering also saw many friends and family members arrive even after the Eucharist had concluded. Their presence was a witness to Sr Molly’s contribution and importance to their lives, adding a final, personal touch to the joyful celebration.