The Feast of St. Anthony was celebrated on Monday, 13th June 2022, at the Tollebando, Aquem Chapel, with a lot of fervour and passion. Parish Priest of Nagoa Church, Fr. Edson Fernandes, was the Main Celebrant for the Feast Mass. Our Parish Priest, Fr. Andrew Pereira, Ex-Parish Priest Fr. James Torres e Silva, Ex-parish Priest Fr. Movin Menezes and our recently ordained parishioner, Fr. Kevin Fernandes, were the other co-celebrants for the Mass. In his homily, Fr. Edson, dwelt on the theme of bringing happiness in our family lives by being simple, honest and true to the teachings of our Lord Jesus. He exhorted the faithful to follow the example of St. Anthony in this respect. The local choir was led by our Asst. Parish Priest, Fr. Leslie Gomes. As the feast was celebrated this year after a gap of two years, due to the pandemic, a large, unprecedented gathering, attended the Mass. The bright and sunny weather facilitated the faithful to attend the same. The feast Mass was telecasted live by Prudent Media. Prior to the Feast, the blessing of the banner was held on 31st May 2022 at 12 noon by our Parish Priest, Fr. Andrew Pereira and this event too was covered by Prudent Media.
Our Trezen was held from 1st June to 12th June with Rosary and Litany at 5:30pm followed by the Holy Eucharist at 6:00pm. We were fortunate to have many Priests from different Parishes, to offer Mass and Preach the homily. Fr. Savio D’Souza (Youth Director), Fr. Gabriel Coutinho (Parish Priest, Navelim) Fr. Elvis Godinho (Asst. Parish Priest, Navelim), Fr. Albano Fernandes (Director, Family Service Centre) and our very own Fr. Andrew Pereira and Fr. Leslie Gomes offered Masses during the Trezen and preached the homily. The themes were chosen on “Family Life”.
A lot of people devoutly attended the services. People from far and near and from the neighbouring villages took pains to pay homage to our most popular Saint. People came to seek favours through the intercession of St. Anthony, whereas others thanked the Almighty for favours granted and fulfilled their vows.
Overall with the help and cooperation and monetary contributions from one and all, the Trezen and Feast was a grand success. This was made possible through the able guidance and support from our Parish Priest Fr. Andrew Pereira and the Asst. parish Priest Fr. Leslie Gomes.
May St. Anthony continue to bless us and intercede for us.
Felix Dias
Attorney