MAC Media Release
Canada, August 27: Pope John Paul II said, “True holiness does not mean a flight from the world; rather, it lies in the effort to incarnate the Gospel in everyday life, in the family, at school and at work, and in social and political involvement”.
Archbishop Bernard Moras of Bangalore is a true apostle of Christ with a passionate love to spread the Good News exemplifying the virtues of justice, love, harmony and brotherhood through his deeds. The Catholic community of Toronto was provided with an opportunity to assemble at the Konkani Mass celebrated by Frs Denis Moras Prabhu and Edwin D’Souza on August 20, 2006 in the Sts. Martha and Mary Church, Mississauga. The harmonious choir led by Merlyn Rodrigues, a magnificent Guard of Honor organized by the Knights of Columbus, a dynamic homily and an enthusiastic congregation contributed to a memorable celebration.
The Mass was followed by a felicitation ceremony in honour of the Archbishop. The welcome address by Maxim D’Mello, president, Mangalorean Association of Canada, offered an insight into the Archbishop’s personality and his numerous projects. A humble man with an inspiring personality, Rev Moras strives to achieve his vision of ‘hope and empowerment through education’ for the poor and less privileged children.
As the chairman of the CBCI Commission of Health, Archbishop Moras provided the gathering a glimpse of the HIV/Aids situation in India, its impact on the family and community and the astonishingly high numbers of people infected. He also emphasized the values of the Mand the felicitation, shared his aspirations and requested support for ASHA-Basic Education for Catholic Children. A bouquet of flowers from MAC was presented to the Archbishop by Jolene Menezes.
Fr Edwin D’Souza thanked the Archbishop for his visit and presented him with the Church collection as a token of support for his many projects. Lillian Lobo presented Fr D’Souza with a bouquet on behalf of MAC in sincere appreciation of his dedicated support to MAC and his voluntary offer of the church and church hall for the Eucharistic celebration and felicitation.