News by Gordon D’Almeida
Pics by Stanly Bantwal
Mangaluru, May 24: An emotional atmosphere prevailed at Valencia Parish as parishioners gathered in large numbers to bid a heartfelt farewell to parish priest Fr Roque Victor D’Sa and assistant parish priest Fr Pradeep Rodrigues during a thanksgiving and felicitation programme held on Sunday, May 24.
The farewell ceremony was marked by gratitude, tears and fond memories as parishioners honoured the two priests for their dedicated and selfless service to the parish community.
Fr Roque D’Sa, who assumed charge as parish priest of Valencia Church on July 27, 2020, after serving as a psychology professor at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu, is set to take over as the parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Gantalkatte, Moodbidri.
Meanwhile, Fr Pradeep Rodrigues, who joined Valencia Parish as assistant parish priest on May 6, 2024, for a two-year term, has been appointed assistant estate manager of the diocese of Mangalore at bishop’s house. He will reside at Rosario Cathedral, Mangaluru, while continuing his pastoral responsibilities.
A thanksgiving holy Mass was celebrated by Fr Roque D’Sa, with Fr Pradeep Rodrigues serving as co-celebrant. Following the Mass, the Parish Pastoral Council and various parish organisations jointly organised a felicitation and farewell programme.
Vice-president of the Parish Pastoral Council Ronald Rodrigues welcomed the gathering and highlighted the spiritual growth and developmental works carried out under the leadership of Fr Roque during his tenure. Secretary Leeda Aquinas read the citation, while 21 Commissions coordinator Julian D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks.
As a mark of appreciation and love, Fr Roque was honoured with a shawl by Louis Pinto and Anil Lobo. The memento was presented by Fr Pradeep Rodrigues, while the citation and bouquet were handed over by Ronald Rodrigues, Leeda Aquinas and Julian D’Souza.
Fr Pradeep Rodrigues was also felicitated with a shawl, memento and bouquet by parish representatives.
Later, office-bearers and members of various pious associations came forward to honour both priests for their dedicated ministry and close association with the parish community.
Addressing the gathering, Fr Roque D’Sa recalled several touching memories from his priestly journey and expressed heartfelt gratitude to parishioners, office-bearers, parish staff, religious congregations and volunteers for their cooperation and support over the past six years.
Reflecting on his tenure during the challenging Covid-19 period, Fr Roque thanked God for protecting the parish community and acknowledged the collective efforts of the Parish Pastoral Council, Finance Committee, parish organisations and well-wishers in strengthening the parish.
He specially appreciated the commitment of vice-president Ronald Rodrigues and thanked former and present office-bearers, staff members, donors, assistant parish priests and all parishioners for their love, trust and support.
In an emotional moment, Fr Roque humbly sought forgiveness if he had unintentionally hurt anyone through his words or actions and assured parishioners that Valencia Parish would always remain close to his heart.
Fr Pradeep Rodrigues, in his farewell address, thanked parishioners for their affection and encouragement during his service at Valencia Parish. He expressed special gratitude to Fr Roque D’Sa for his guidance, care and support, especially during his illness and hospitalisation.
He also thanked the Parish Pastoral Council members, Finance Committee, parish staff and leaders of various associations for their cooperation and teamwork.
The farewell programme witnessed the presence of a large number of parishioners, along with vice-president Ronald Rodrigues, secretary Leeda Aquinas, 21 Commissions coordinator Julian D’Souza, Finance Committee representatives Louis J Pinto and Anil Lobo, honorary Parish Council member and MLC Ivan D’Souza and several others.
The emotional send-off reflected the deep bond shared between the priests and the faithful, as parishioners wished both Fr Roque D’Sa and Fr Pradeep Rodrigues success and blessings in their new assignments.