News and Pics by Ronald D'Souza, Toronto
Daijiworld Media Network - Canada

Mississauga, May 16: In deep gratitude for the unwavering support and spiritual comfort the priests provide to the community, the Mangalorean Association of Canada organized a felicitation for the Priests on May 9, 2010 in Sts Martha and Mary Parish, Mississauga.  A special Eucharistic celebration with Msgr Terence D’Souza as the main celebrant with Fr Andrew Lewis, Fr Edwin D’Souza and Fr Joseph Wasik as concelebrants was the highlight of the event.  Merlyn Rodrigues led the choir and Msgr D’Souza preached a soul stirring homily. 

The felicitation ceremony was held in the in the church hall and was preceded by a cultural program.  Janet D’Souza introduced Maxim D’Mello who welcomed the spiritual leaders and the audience and thanked them for their wholehearted participation.   Renita Fernandes put on a stupendous performance in her welcome dance which was followed by an enthusiastic group song, “Bless All Priests’ directed by Sonia Monteiro.  The song was sung by Clementina D'Souza, Lawrentina D'Souza, Priston Ken Monteiro, Seneca Rego, Aaron Mathias Cassie D'Cunha, Nishant D'Mello, Linton Pinto, Larson Pinto, Lloyd Pinto, Joylin D'Souza, Natasha D'Souza, Elvin D'Souza, Michele D'Mello, Lillian Lobo, Lynn D'Souza, Leandra D'Souza and Leonora D'Souza.  The emotional and serene prayer dance by Clementina D'Souza, Joylin D'Souza, Natasha D'Souza, Lawrentina D'Souza and Lynn D'Souza brought the audience to their feet and to tremendous cheering for the immense talent of the youngsters. 

Priests provide an unparalleled service to the members of their parish and the community.  From the time one is born till he or she dies, spiritual fathers administer the sacraments, instill, promote and encourage faith and serve as hospital chaplains.  They explain the teachings of Jesus and how one can apply them to his or her daily lives.  They do all this and much more and ask for nothing in return.  With this in mind and for their dedication and service, MAC President, Maxim D’Mello presented mementoes to Msgr Terence D’Souza, Fr Andrew Lewis, Fr Edwin D’Souza,  Fr Mounir El-Rassi,  Fr Mark Achilles Villanueva,  Fr Jose Thaipparampil and Fr Joseph Wasik.  Each priest then shared some thoughts and requested prayers for vocations and family togetherness.  MAC also appreciated the efforts of former President and life member, Melwyn Menezes for his efforts in establishing the association and presented him with a bouquet of flowers.  Sr Ferdinand was also presented with flowers for her continual support and prayers for the association. 

A cake was cut to commemorate Mothers Day, with the spiritual leaders offering a blessing and prayer for the mothers.  Michelle Fernandes sang a special song for the mothers in the audience.  MAC also announced a special fund raising game of Housie for the proposed medical college and hospital that is to be built in Ranchi, Jharkhand.  In 2009, the General Body of Catholic Bishops made a historic decision to build this hospital to ensure that the poor and marginalized sections of northern India would have access to improved health care facilities. 

A delicious dinner catered by Konkan Delite was served and the evening ended on a successful note with the Lavdhate.  The melodious music provided by DJ Keegan Lobo and the efforts of every volunteer and member who worked hard towards ensuring the grand success of this event was appreciated by all.

The `Year of the Priests’’ is being celebrated throughout the world from June 19, 2009.   This is an opportunity for every Catholic to reflect upon the importance of the contributions and dedication of priests, support and encourage the vocation of priesthood, and acknowledge and appreciate the tremendous service they provide to God’s people.