Abu Dhabi: Konkani Community celebrated St. Francis Xavier feast at St. Joseph’s Cathedral

By Alphonse Mendonsa
Bellevision Media Network

Abu Dhabi, 04 Dec 2014: The Konkani Community of  Abu Dhabi Celebrated St. Francis Xavier feast on Wednesday, 3 December 2014 at 8 pm at the St. Joseph’s Cathedral Abu Dhabi.

 

A large number of members joined the high mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Rodson Govias, con-celebrated with Rev. Fr. Rodney Rebello (Goa Province), Rev. Fr. Valerian Fernandes (Spiritual Director, Konkani Community Abu Dhabi) and Rev. Fr. Mathew Fernandes.

 

Prior to beginning of Mass, Rev. Fr. Savarimuthu (Parish Priest) conveyed his  wishes to the congregation on the occasion of feast of St. Francis Xavier. Fr. Valerian Fernandes welcomed the gathering and offered flower bouquet to Fr. Savarimuthu.

 

 

Fr. Rodney in his brief homily explained the values of family life, and how a good family by their example can spread the good news of Jesus Christ. He gave an example of little girl who met with an accident and while recovering she pledged to spread the good news by living a good life and an example to others so that the message of Christ is spread as St. Francis Xavier in his life time had done so.

H.E. Bishop Paul Hinder made a brief appearance after the mass and congratulated the congregation and wished them on the occasion of the great feast. He was honoured with a flower bouquet by a member of congregation on behalf of Konkani community.

On the auspicious occasion a member of Konkani community Abu Dhabi Miss. Joshal Sweeda D’Souza who recently won the gulf level singing competition titled: Gulf Voice of Mangalore (GVOM-Season-4) was honoured by Bishop Paul Hinder with a flower bouquet.

 

Mr. John Fernandes one of the leading member of Goan community expressed his thanks for all the people for attending the mass in large numbers. He also thanked the visiting priests, and all the priests who joined in the celebrations. He too offered a flower bouquet to Fr. Valerian Fernandes on behalf of Konkani community Abu Dhabi in appreciation for his constant guidance and support to Konkani community since he joined St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

 

Prior to the closing ceremony Fr. Valerian proposed the vote of thanks and thanked for all members who were instrumental in organizing the feast mass, all the priests, choir group led by Ms. Cyrila, volunteers and the congregation.

The choir group led by Ms. Cyrila rendered melodious hymns throughout the mass. The packets of dinner were distributed for all those attended the feast of St. Francis Xavier.