April 14, 2024: Womens Day was celebrated at Shirva Parish.
Category: News
Our Lady of Dolours: Irmiz Feast
April 3, 2024: Our Lady of Dolours Irmiz Church celebrated its Vespers and Feast on April 2nd and 3rd, 2024. Rev. Fr. Pradeep Cardoza, Assistant Parish Priest of St. Lawrence Church, Moodubelle, was the main celebrant on the day of Vespers. V. Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Rolwyn Aranha, Rev. Fr. Ronson Pinto, and priests from Don Bosco Youth Centre were also present for the occasion. During this event, a dedicated borewell and pumpset, sponsored by Asses Castelino in memory of the late Lawrence Castelino, were inaugurated. On the day of the Feast, Rev. Fr. Alwyn Sequeira, Editor of Uzwaad, Diocese Magazine, was the main celebrant. Many devotees participated in the proceedings on both days.
Holy Saturday Celebration at Shirva Parish
March 30, 2024: The Holy Saturday celebration at Our Lady of Health Church, Shirva, was marked with profound spirituality and anticipation of the Resurrection. The evening commenced with the Easter Vigil, a service rich in symbolism and tradition. The ceremony began outside the church with the blessing of the new fire and the preparation of the Paschal candle by V. Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’Souza.
As the congregation moved into the darkened church, the light from the Paschal candle gradually illuminated the space, symbolizing Christ as the Light of the World. Easter Proclamation, was then beautifully chanted, setting the tone for the night’s celebrations.
The Liturgy of the Word followed, with multiple readings recounting the history of salvation, from Creation through the Exodus to the Resurrection. Each reading was accompanied by a psalm and a prayer, inviting reflection on God’s enduring presence and promises.
Rev. Fr. Rolwyn Aranha delivered a homily emphasizing the joy and hope of Easter, highlighting the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection. The liturgy continued with the blessing of water, renewal of baptismal promises, and the celebration of the Eucharist.
The service concluded with jubilant hymns and the ringing of bells, as the congregation celebrated the Resurrection of Christ. The Holy Saturday Vigil at Shirva Parish was a powerful and uplifting preparation for Easter Sunday, leaving the parishioners spiritually renewed and filled with Easter joy.
Good Friday Ceremony at Shirva Parish
Maundy Thursday Celebration at Shirva Parish
March 28, 2024 – The faithful of Shirva Parish gathered to commemorate Maundy Thursday, marking the beginning of the Easter Triduum. The solemn event, held at Our Lady of Health Church, began with a deeply reflective service, drawing the community together in remembrance of the Last Supper.
The evening commenced with a Eucharistic service led by Rev. Fr. Jason Lobo. The significance of Jesus’ act of washing the disciples’ feet, symbolizing humility and service, was highlighted during the ceremonial washing of the feet for twelve parishioners, which was performed by V. Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’Souza.
The liturgy continued with the consecration of the Holy Eucharist, accompanied by heartfelt hymns and prayers. Parishioners participated in the Holy Communion, reflecting on the sacrificial love of Christ.
After the Mass, the congregation proceeded with the solemn adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, which was placed in a beautifully decorated altar of repose. The faithful spent time in silent prayer and meditation, contemplating the Passion of Christ.
The Maundy Thursday service at Shirva Parish was a profound reminder of the core Christian values of love, humility, and service, setting the tone for the observances of Good Friday and Easter.
