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.

March 24, 2024: Palm Sunday was joyfully celebrated at Our Lady of Health Church Shirva, marking the solemn beginning of Holy Week. The proceedings commenced at Msgr. Hilary Rangamatap, where V. Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’Souza led the congregation in the blessing of the palms, symbolizing Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. With palms in hand, the faithful joined in a procession towards Our Lady of Health Church, echoing the ancient tradition of laying down palm branches to welcome Jesus. Assisting in the sacred rituals were co-celebrants Rev. Fr. Rolwyn Aranha, Rev. Fr. Ronson Pinto, and Rev. Fr. Jason Lobo, adding to the reverence of the occasion. The vibrant celebration served as a poignant reminder of Jesus’ humble yet triumphant entry into Jerusalem, setting the stage for the transformative events of Holy Week.

February 11, 2024: The tranquil town of Shirva came alive with devout fervor as the annual feast of Our Lady of Lourdes was celebrated at Shirva Parish. The festivities commenced with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 5:40 PM near the picturesque setting of Irmiz Church Open Ground, setting the tone for an evening of prayer and reverence.

Leading the congregation in the solemn mass was Rev. Fr. Arun Wilson Lobo, the esteemed Principal of Padua College of Commerce and Management, Nanthur, Mangalore, who graced the occasion as the main celebrant. Alongside him stood a distinguished assembly of clergy, including V. Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie Dsouza, Rev. Fr. Rolwyn Aranha, Rev. Fr. Ronson Pinto, and Rev. Fr. Jason Lobo, each contributing to the spiritual ambiance of the evening.

Following the mass, the faithful gathered for a poignant candlelight procession from Irmiz Church to Our Lady of Health Church, a symbolic journey of faith and devotion. The evening continued with a thought-provoking sermon and Eucharistic Adoration, deepening the spiritual connection of the parishioners with their patron saint.

Amidst prayers and reflections, the celebration of Our Lady of Lourdes Feast at Shirva Parish served as a poignant reminder of the enduring faith and devotion of the community, inspiring all to walk in the footsteps of divine grace.