The Catholic Sabha, Bondel Unit, & Environment Commission Jointly organized the ‘Laudato Si Van Mahotsav’ on Sunday, 13th July 2025, with a meaningful and eco-conscious celebration held at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel.

The program commenced at 8:00 a.m. in the church pandal with a prayerful invocation of God’s blessings. Mr. Sujay D’Silva, President of the Catholic Sabha, warmly welcomed all the distinguished guests and the gathered faithful

The event was graced by several dignitaries: Rev Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza Parish Priest, , Rev Fr Peter Gonsalves- Principal St Lawrence English Medium School ,Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest ,Mr John D’Silva- Vice President-, Mr Santhosh Misquith, Secretary- Parish Pastoral Council, Mr Sujay D’Silva, President- Catholic Sabha ,Mrs Olivia D’Sa- Secretary, Catholic Sabha, Mr Herald Pinto, Convener, Environmental Commission.

On this occasion, the Chief Guest, accompanied by the dignitaries on the dais, planted and watered a sapling—an act symbolizing our shared responsibility to protect and nurture the environment

The chief guest for the occasion, Mr Gilbert D’Souza, a senior citizen and farmer from Pachanady, was felicitated with a shawl, memento, and a sapling by the Catholic Sabha as a token of appreciation for his eco-friendly lifestyle and valuable contributions to agriculture.

The Chief Guest, Mr Gilbert D’Souza, expressed his deep love for nature and shared his joy in having donated two teak trees during the church renovation. ‘It fills me with pride every time I see our church,’ he remarked. He encouraged everyone to plant more trees and protect nature, noting with gratitude that his son is carrying forward this legacy. Mr Gilbert D’Souza thanked the Catholic Sabha for the honor and appreciation.

Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, in his message, affectionately referred to Mr. Gilbert as “Laat Kumer,” comparing him to the traditional tool used to draw water—symbolizing his tireless efforts and dedication to farming. He commended Mr Gilbert’s commitment to an eco-friendly lifestyle and spoke about Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’, encouraging everyone to take responsibility in caring for creation and protecting nature through thoughtful and simple actions.

A symbolic distribution of saplings and manure was held, during which they were handed over to the parish clergy, the Vice President, the Secretary, and all 36 ward Gurkars

The program was smoothly compered by Mr Wilfred Alvares. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr Herold Pinto, who expressed gratitude to each and everyone involved. The saplings were arranged by Mr Luvi Pinto and Mr Stany Alvares, while the backdrop, mementos, and banner were thoughtfully prepared by Mr Jason Fernandes. The event ended on a prayerful and harmonious note with a thanksgiving hymn.

Photography Anson Rego, Report: Meena Serrao Barboza