On Sunday, May 17th, 2026 at 5 p.m. Mass was solemnly celebrated as Altar Servers’ Day at Bondel Church. The Holy Eucharistic celebration was led by the main celebrant, Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, Judicial Vicar/Coordinator for Pastoral Commissions of Mangalore Diocese. The concelebrants were Rev.Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza, Parish Priest, and Rev.Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Director of altar servers &Assistant Priest.

During the homily, Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza beautifully reflected on the glorious Ascension of Jesus and reminded the faithful that heaven is our true home. He encouraged everyone to live a life rooted in prayer, faith, humility, and love while journeying on this earth towards eternal life with Christ. He also invoked God’s abundant blessings upon all the altar servers and appreciated their sincere service at the Lord’s altar.

The liturgy for the Mass was prayerfully and meaningfully conducted by the altar servers, making the celebration grace-filled and memorable.

The Altar Servers’ Day cultural program began at 6:30 p.m. in the mini hall of Bondel Church with great joy and enthusiasm.

The dignitaries present on the dais were Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza. Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal St Lawrence English Medium School, Rev.Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Mr John D’Silva, Vice President, Mr Alwyn Saldanha, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, animator Mrs Meena Barboza, along with Altar Servers’ President Renvil Mascarenhas and Secretary Neola Pinto.

Renvil Mascarenhas warmly welcomed the guests, altar servers, and parents gathered for the celebration. The guests were honored with roses by the altar servers. Neola Pinto then presented the annual report of the Altar Servers.

In his inspiring message, Fr. Naveen Pinto spoke beautifully about the sacred role of altar servers, encouraging them to grow in holiness, devotion, discipline, and closeness to the altar while living meaningful Christian lives.

Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves appreciated the dedicated efforts of Fr Lawrence Cutinha and animator Mrs Mena Barboza for their loving guidance, training, and commitment towards the altar servers & appreciated the altar servers and parents for their support and guidance.

A heartfelt sharing was given by altar server Siona Dsouza expressing gratitude to Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza for his eight years of dedicated ministry and loving guidance to the altar servers.

A felicitation program was then held in honor of Rev. Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza, and the citation was read by animator Mrs Meena Barboza. Rev. Fr Andrew was honored with a shawl, citation letter, garland, and flower bouquet. The guests present on the dais joined in the felicitation celebration.

In his message, Fr Andrew Leo Dsouza appreciated Fr Lawrence Cutinha for his continuous support, dedication, and sincere efforts in training the altar servers and carrying out his mission in the parish. He also thanked animator Mrs Meena Barboza for her eight years of selfless service, moral support, encouragement, and loving motherly care towards the altar servers. He further expressed his gratitude to all the parents for their constant support, cooperation, and encouragement in guiding the children in faith and service.

Prizes were distributed to the winners of various competitions, regular daily Mass servers, and students who had completed their 10th standard examinations. Fun games were conducted by animator Mrs Meena Barboza, followed by beautiful dance performances by the altar servers.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Jassica, while the program was compared by Delvin Vas. The prayer before the meal was led by Fr. Peter Gonsalves. The program concluded with the Angelus and hymn, followed by supper and ice cream/Chocolate for all the parents and children. The children were delighted and joyful throughout the celebration.

Report: Meena Serrao Barboza Photography : Glanvia Pinto