On the 4th August, Friday, it was the feast of St. John Maria Vianny, the patron saint of Priests. It was ‘The Day of the Priests’. We, at Milagres church, kept up this feast on the 6th August, Sunday, and celebrated during 7am Mass. All our Priests residing at Milagres joined in the celebration. The parish priest Rev Fr Valerian Dsouza was the main celebrant.
Fr. Edwin Monis, the Asst. Parish Priest, gave a meaningful homily on that day’s Gospel “The Transfiguration”. This was followed by speaking briefly on the life of St. John Maria Vianny and how he inspired the young with his simplicity and sacrificial life to join the priesthood and serve God in any capacity.
After the Holy mass a short honouring program was held for all the 7 priests. Mr Ivan D’Souza, ex Vice President of Parish Council, gave a brief introduction of the feast of St. Vianny and spoke highly of each priest on their dedicated service to the church and it’s faithful in Milagres; they were Rev Fr William Gonsalves, Rev Fr Gregory W Vas, Rev Fr Valerian D’Souza, Rev Fr Michael Santhumayar, Rev Fr Anil D’Souza, Rev Fr Edwin Monis and Rev Fr Maxim D’Souza and were honoured with bouquets of flowers to each one.
The celebration mass was attended by the Gurkars, Representatives and Parish Council members and a large number of parishioners. This celebration was held to appreciate and acknowledge the role of Priests in the life of people.