St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) of Bondel Unit celebrated its patron, Fredrick Ozanam’s Day.

Mangalore: The Society of St Vincent de Paul of Bondel celebrated its patron St. Vincent de Paul feast on Sunday, September 24, 2023.

The Eucharistic mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Andrew Leo D’Souza.

In his homily, Fr. Andrew pointed out the role of St Vincent de Paul for the poorest of the poor. His life was about preaching missions to and providing relief to the poor, which became his passion. The liturgy of the 7.00 a.m. Mass was conducted by the members of the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

A short programme was held at the church mini-hall at 8 a.m.

The programme began with a prayer invoking God’s Blessings. The SVP members made a pledge to the Vincentians, which was administered by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest.

Mr Neris D’Sa, president of the SVP, welcomed the gathering with an annual report.

Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza Parish Priest, Mr John D’Silva – Vice President Parish Pastoral Council, Mr Santhosh Misquith, Secretary Parish Pastoral Council, Mr Neris D’Sa, President SVP, Mr Naveen Correa, Secretary SVP, Mrs Shiney Monteiro were present at the Dias.

On the occasion of Fr Andrew’s Diamond Birthday, SVP members arranged a cake. The cake was cut by Rev. Fr Andrew  while all sang “Happy Birthday”. Mr Stany Alvares, on behalf of the SVP members, thanked God for giving us such a loving parish priest who kept us parishioners in God’s love and was always ready to help and guide us to live as followers of Christ Jesus.

Rev. Fr Andrew D’Souza, in his address, said that the words of Jesus Matthew 25:40: ‘Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. ’, “We all have to live our lives in church as one family. Let all of us take him as our role model in real life and help others in their needy times.

While congratulating the SVP members for doing good work for the poor and needy for 48 years, he explained that society has done many good deeds by building houses and providing food grains and other things to the poor, and he advised the members to continue the good work of Fredrick Ozanam.

Mr Santhosh Misquith, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, said, “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.” Help others without any reason and give without the expectation of receiving anything in return.” Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. He congratulated the members of the St Vincent de Paul Society, Bondel. Not only the members, but there are others who are not members but always lend a helping hand. Indirectly, they are also members of SVP.

Mr Wilfred Alvares, President, Catholic Sabha, City of Varado, said, I am grateful to the SVP Bondel unit for rendering their selfless service to the poor and needy. “Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the LORD, your God, will bless you in everything you do. He congratulated the members of the St Vincent de Paul Society.

Mr Naveen Correa proposed a vote of thanks. Mr Stany Alvares compered the programme. Snacks were served to all the members, well-wishers, donors, and adopted members of the SVP. The programme concluded with the hymn “Moja Lana Bhavank.

Pics: Mr Rony
Report: Meena Serrao Barboza