November 26, 2023: Nineteen children from Shirva Parish received their First Holy Communion. Bishop Salvadore Lobo, Bishop Emeritus, was the main celebrant. The V. Rev. Father Leslie D’Souza, Rev. Fr Ronson Pinto, Rev. Fr. Jason Lobo, and several other priests were present during the ceremony.
October 29, 2023: Shirva Parish received TWO prizes during the 18th Diocese Level Singing Competition at Pangla Parish organized by ICYM Pangla on 29-10-2023.
1. Ashni Saldhana secured 3rd Place in 11-15 years solo girls category.
2. Shirva Parish secured 3rd Place in Below 10 group category.
Congratulations!
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October 22, 2023: In a heartwarming display of faith and togetherness, the Shanthigudde Ward celebrated their annual ward feast in a day filled with religious fervor and communal bonding. The event, which began with a Eucharistic Mass at 7:15 am, was a testament to the strength of the Shanthigudde community.
The Holy Mass, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Ronson Pinto, saw active participation from the ward members who came together to mark the special occasion. Following the service, the celebration continued with a heartfelt get-together hosted at the residence of Mrs. Christine Mathias, a cherished member of the community.
The program officially commenced at 12 pm with a warm welcome extended to esteemed guests by the ward Gurkar, Mrs. Shalini Corda, followed by a solemn prayer. The event was graced by the presence of Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Rolwyn Aranha, as well as the Nativity and Auxilium Convent superiors, Sr. Diana Lobo and Sr. Leema, and their fellow community sisters. In addition, Parish Pastoral Council Vice President, Mr. Melwyn Aranha, and the 20 Commissions Coordinator, Mrs. Leena Machado, along with neighboring ward Gurkars, honored the celebration with their presence.
Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’Souza and Rev. Fr. Rolwyn Aranha addressed the gathering with their inspiring messages. A special moment was reserved for the former ward Gurkar, Mrs. Diana Saldanha, who was honored for her years of dedicated service to the community.
The program featured a range of entertainment, including a beautiful group singing performance by ward members, a captivating dance performance by the enthusiastic youngsters, and a thought-provoking skit performed by ward members, centered around the theme of family.
The event also included some lively spot games conducted by Mrs. Diana Saldanha, adding an element of fun and excitement to the gathering, making it a memorable day for all in attendance.
The celebration culminated in a delightful communal lunch, which filled the atmosphere with a sense of togetherness and joy. The day’s festivities showcased the strong unity in Shanthigudde Ward, using the ward feast as an opportunity to honor their patron saint, Mount Mary, and to further strengthen their special community bonds.
September 8, 2023: The Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was celebrated at Our Lady of Health Church, Shirva. Monthi Fest holds great cultural importance, serving as a significant harvest celebration within the Catholic community. This festivity showcases a diverse array of delectable vegetarian dishes crafted from locally cultivated vegetables. Notably, the newly harvested rice takes center stage during the feast, symbolically distributed in churches following a blessed ceremony.
The proceedings were initiated by Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’Souza, who blessed the new rice at Msgr. Hilary Rangamantapa. This was followed by a procession to Our Lady of Health Church, Shirva, with Rev. Fr. Rolwin Aranha as the main celebrant. Rev. Fr. Ronson Pinto and Deacon Jason Lobo were also present during this ceremony.
Pics by Vivian Machado
