Bondel Parish Joyfully Celebrates Senior Citizens’ Day with Love and Gratitude

April 8, 2025

Mangaluru, April 6, 2025: The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) at St. Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, joyfully celebrated Senior Citizens’ Day on Sunday, April 6, 2025, in a spirit of faith, fellowship, and heartfelt appreciation.

The day’s celebrations began with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration at 11:00 a.m., presided over by Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore. He was joined by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest, and Rev. Fr Denis D’Souza, former Parish Priest, as concelebrants. The liturgy was beautifully led by senior citizens and SVP members, while the melodious singing of the church choir, in collaboration with SVP, added to the prayerful atmosphere.

In his inspiring homily, Bishop Aloysius spoke of love, mercy, and forgiveness, calling on the faithful to prepare their hearts during this Jubilee Year. Citing Pope Francis, he encouraged the community to welcome back those who have strayed and to restore their dignity with compassion. He paid special tribute to senior citizens, calling them “a blessing to every family” and a source of joy, wisdom, and grace.

Following the Mass, a cultural program brought vibrancy and warmth to the celebration. It began with blessings sought from the Bishop, priests, and elders. Mr Ronald Lasrado inaugurated the event, while Mr Naveen Correa welcomed the dignitaries and guests with the traditional offering of panpod and udak. Mr Neris Dias, SVP President, extended a formal and heartfelt welcome.

The dais was adorned with distinguished guests including:

Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza
Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza (Parish Priest)
Rev. Fr William D’Souza (Asst. Parish Priest)
Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves
Rev. Fr Denis D’Souza (Retired Former Parish Priest)
Mr John D’Silva (Vice President, Parish Pastoral Council)
Mr Santhosh Misquith (Secretary, Parish Pastoral Council)
Mr Neris Dias (SVP President)
Mr Naveen Correa (SVP Member)

In his message, Bishop Aloysius congratulated the SVP for their initiative and emphasized the importance of honoring elders, who he described as the “true ornaments” of our homes and communities. He urged families to show them love, respect, and appreciation, recognizing their wisdom and life-long contributions.

Spiritual Director Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza echoed these sentiments, calling on the faithful to respect and cherish the senior members of society. He also commended the SVP team for their unwavering dedication to serving the elderly with compassion and grace.

Rev. Fr Denis D’Souza offered a thanksgiving prayer before the fellowship meal, bringing the spiritual tone of the day full circle.

Several senior parishioners were specially honored during the event:

Mr & Mrs Cyril Monthi D’Souza (Carmel Ward), celebrating 63 years of marriage.
Mr Anthony Lobo (St Joseph Ward),
Mr Alphonso Saldanha (St Thomas Ward),
Rev. Fr Denis D’Souza, and
Mrs Lorene Monteiro (St Thomas Ward) – all aged 90 – were felicitated with bouquets and gifts as tokens of love and gratitude.
Mrs Dulcine D’Souza (St Ann Ward) was recognized for her victory in a quiz competition.

Mr Ronald Lasrado, who also served as the master of ceremonies, kept the program engaging with his eloquence and musical talents. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr Naveen Correa, who expressed sincere gratitude to all who made the event possible.

The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, where a large gathering of senior citizens shared joyful moments, rekindled friendships, and embraced the warmth of community.

Photography: Mr Ronald
Report: Meena Serrao Barboza