3rd November 2024, Sunday On the occasion of Centenary Celebrations the Cultural Committee of St. Lawrence Church organised the Ward Patron Picturization Contest at 3 p.m. Parishioners gathered in high spirits, filling the church Pendal to support this vibrant event that highlighted both community spirit and faith.

The event began with an opening prayer led by Asst. Parish Priest Rev. Fr William D’Souza, creating a reverent solemn atmosphere. Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves Principal St Lawrence Eng. Med. School warmly welcomed all judges with a rose as a gesture of appreciation.

A total of 16 wards participated, each entry uniquely portraying devotion to their respective patrons, adding a rich diversity to the competition. An esteemed panel of judges, including Rev. Fr Arun Wilson Lobo, Sr Saritha Maria Crasta, Miss Sweedal D’Souza,, evaluated the entries.

Rev. Fr Andrew, the Parish Priest presented a token of appreciation to each judge, expressing gratitude for their time and insights. Music Master Simon and his group added a touch of melody by performing hymns dedicated to the Saints, enriching the event’s spiritual atmosphere.

Following the contest, the judges shared their thoughts. Rev. Fr Arun Wilson Lobo acknowledged the dedication and hard work poured into each presentation, appreciating how participants conveyed their dreams within the three-minute display limit.

Miss Sweedal D’Souza expressed her delight at the active involvement from children to adults, congratulating both organizers and participants.

Sr Saritha Maria Crasta praised the unity and teamwork displayed by all the ward members, commending the efforts of the Cultural Committee.

Dr. Rita Pinto, compered the program with a warm, professional presence, kept the audience engaged, while Mrs Shaila Saldanha gracefully delivered the vote of thanks.

Consolation cash prizes were awarded to all the Ward participants, while the first, second, and third-place winners received cash prizes along with a special memento of the renovated church.

The event concluded with a heartfelt thanksgiving prayer, as parishioners departed with smiles and a renewed sense of community.

The winners of the contest were as follows:

1st Prize – Holy Trinity Ward,

2nd Prize – St. Joseph Ward,

and 3rd Prize – Christ the King Ward.

Report & Photography: Meena Serrao Barboza