On Sunday, 7th June 2026, after the Catechism classes, all the Altar Servers gathered in the Church Mini Hall for a special celebration in honour of the birthday of Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves.

The gathering began with a prayer led by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Basil Vas. Animator Mrs Meena Barboza warmly welcomed him with a bouquet of flowers.

The highlight of the programme was the joyful cake-cutting ceremony celebrating the birthday of Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves. Before the celebration, Rev. Fr Lawrence spoke warmly about Fr Peter’s dedication, love, and care for children and the Altar Servers. He highlighted Fr Peter’s committed service as the Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, his many achievements, and his graceful, spiritual, and humble personality. He also acknowledged Fr Peter’s constant support and encouragement towards the Altar Servers’ Association.

In his message, Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves thanked the Altar Servers for their love and prayers. He encouraged them to serve the Lord with sincerity and devotion, reminding them that an altar server should always be disciplined, prayerful, and respectful in both church and daily life.

Rev. Fr Basil expressed his happiness at seeing such a large gathering of Altar Servers. He shared that he himself had served as an altar server during his childhood and that the experience had taught him many valuable lessons. He added that serving at the altar had inspired him to respond to God’s call to the priesthood. He encouraged the children to continue serving the Lord faithfully and to grow in discipline, prayer, and love for the Church.

Animator Meena Barboza took the opportunity to thank the office bearers of the Altar Servers’ Association for the year 2025–2026, including the President, Secretary, and the four Group Leaders, for their dedicated service throughout the year. As a token of appreciation, Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha director presented them with flowers.

At the end of the programme, Rev. Fr Lawrence also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Animator Meena Barboza for her selfless and dedicated service to the Altar Servers’ Association throughout the year.

The celebration concluded with the distribution of cake to all the Altar Servers, making it a joyful and memorable occasion filled with fellowship, gratitude, and God’s blessings. The gathering ended on a prayerful note with a thanksgiving hymn in honour of Mother Mary.

Report:Meena Serrao Barboza