With Gratitude and Prayers – Thanksgiving Mass During the Farewell of Rev. Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza, Parish Priest of Bondel Parish

On Saturday, 23rd May 2026, at 5:00 p.m., the Feast of Pentecost and the Thanksgiving Mass were solemnly celebrated by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza, together with the concelebrants: Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Priest; Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; Rev. Fr Vincent Saldanha of Mangalore; Rev. Fr Ivan Cordeiro-Assistant Manager of Codialbail Press; Rev. Fr Vincent Dsouza Director CODP; Rev. Fr Clifford Pinto, Principal of Holy Redeemer School, Belthangady; Rev. Fr William Dsouza, Assistant Administrator of FMCI; Rev. Fr Biju Superior Bethraam; and Rev. Fr Rupesh Tauro of St. Anthony PU College, Naravi. The Eucharistic celebration was prayerful, grace-filled, and witnessed by a large gathering of parishioners and well-wishers.

During his homily on the Feast of Pentecost, Rev. Fr Andrew prayerfully reflected on the presence, power, and divine gifts of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the faithful. Referring to John 20:22, he recalled the words of Jesus, “Receive the Holy Spirit,” and beautifully explained the precious gifts of peace, mercy, and forgiveness bestowed upon humanity through the Holy Spirit. Echoing Christ’s comforting words, “Peace be with you,” Father encouraged everyone to become true instruments of peace, love, reconciliation, and compassion in their families and communities. Reflecting deeply on the grace of forgiveness, he shared inspiring examples from the life of Saint John Paul II, the family of Sister Rani Maria, and his own personal experience of forgiveness, reminding the faithful that true Christian living calls us to let go of anger, forgive wholeheartedly, and humbly seek forgiveness from one another.

He emphasized that the Holy Spirit strengthens hearts wounded by pain and division, leading believers towards healing, unity, and holiness through the path of love and forgiveness.

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After the Holy Mass, the Ward Gurkars’ Oath-Taking Ceremony was held and was solemnly administered by Rev. Fr Andrew. The newly appointed Gurkar’s prayerfully took their oath of responsibility and service, seeking God’s guidance and blessings as they begin their mission of serving the parish community with faith, unity, and dedication.

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza

Photography:Stanley Bantwal