Report: Canara Communication Centre Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje Mangaluru, Oct 15: A spirit of joy and thanksgiving filled the Zuze Vaz Home, Nandigudda, on October 14, as Fr Francis Xavier Gomes, one of the most respected priests of the Diocese of Mangalore, celebrated his 75th birthday. The platinum jubilee of his life and 50 years of priestly service were marked with a solemn thanksgiving Eucharist, followed by a grand felicitation ceremony attended by bishops, clergy, dignitaries, and well-wishers from across the region. Thanksgiving Eucharist highlights spiritual legacy The celebration began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at 10:30 am in the Zuze Vaz Home chapel. The Holy Mass was presided over by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangalore, and concelebrated by Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, bishop emeritus of Mangalore, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi, Dr Robert M Miranda, bishop of Gulbarga, Dr Lawrence Mukkuzhi, bishop of Belthangady, and Rt Rev James Patteril, designated bishop of Belthangady diocese. The chapel was filled with priests, religious sisters, family members, and admirers of Fr Gomes, all united in gratitude for his life of service. Homily reflects on priesthood as a divine calling In his homily, bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo spoke of priesthood as “a bridge between God and man.” He described Fr Gomes as a faithful servant who, for five decades, has embodied Christ’s compassion through his role as pastor, educator, and mentor. “Rooted in the words, ‘I have called you by name; you are mine,’ Fr Gomes has lived his calling with humility and unwavering faith,” he said. Felicitation ceremony honours a life of service The formal felicitation ceremony followed in the Saint Zuze Vaz Home hall. A distinguished gathering of bishops and dignitaries graced the stage, including former minister Vinaya Kumar Sorake, former MLA J R Lobo, Dr M Mohan Alva, chairman of Alva’s Education Foundation, Msgr Leslie Shenoy, and very rev Maxim Noronha, vicar general of the diocese of Mangalore. A toast to an educator and visionary leader Dr Mohan Alva, in his address, hailed Fr Gomes as an “institution builder” whose contribution to education has left a lasting imprint. “He has gone beyond academics to shape minds and hearts. His leadership reflects discipline, moral strength, and a deep sense of mission,” Dr Alva remarked. Honouring the bishops and fellow priests In a touching gesture, Fr Gomes personally honoured all the bishops present, expressing gratitude for their guidance and companionship throughout his priestly journey. His humility and respect for his peers deeply moved the audience. Recognition for academic excellence The event also included a special felicitation for Dr Praveen Martis, SJ, principal of St Aloysius College (Autonomous), on the institution’s achievement of becoming a deemed-to-be university — a milestone recognized as a moment of pride for the entire Mangaluru community. An emotional expression of gratitude In his response, an emotional Fr Gomes thanked God for the blessings of life and priesthood. “My heart overflows with gratitude to the Almighty for guiding me for 50 years in His vineyard. The love and prayers of all gathered here have been my greatest strength,” he shared with heartfelt emotion. Bishop Saldanha praises a priest of vision and faith Delivering the presidential address, bishop Peter Paul Saldanha commended Fr Gomes as a “visionary educator and a man of deep faith.” He said, “Fr Gomes’ legacy lies not only in the institutions he led but also in the countless lives he transformed with wisdom and compassion.” The bishop then felicitated Fr Gomes with a shawl and garland, symbolizing the Church’s deep appreciation for his service. A celebration to remember The event was compered by Rajesh D’Souza. The day concluded with a fellowship meal, where guests shared memories and warm wishes, marking a joyful celebration of a life dedicated to God and humanity. A platinum jubilee to cherish Fr Francis Xavier Gomes’ 75th birthday celebration stood as a testament to faith, education, and service — a life that continues to inspire generations.
