Tribute to Fr.Peter D'souza : Accompaniment of Parishioners to Pastoral Institute Back

A journey that began 6 years ago had now come to an end. It was time for Rev. Fr. Peter D’souza the Parish Priest of Most Holy Redeemer Church to move ahead in the path of his missionary work. With a heavy heart the parishioners of Derebail Church set forward to bid good bye to Fr. Peter D’souza on the 9^th of June,2015. A short prayer was recited at Derebail Church and many parishioners from Derebail along with their Parish Priest And Assistant Parish Priest left for the Pastoral Institute at Bajjodi. The next responsibility that Fr. Peter D’souza had to take up was that of the Director of the Pastoral Institute.

All the parishioners were given a warm welcome at the Pastoral Institute. The programme commenced with a short prayer service led by Rev. Fr. Anil D’souza, the Director of Family Life Service Centre. The Former Director of the Pastoral Institute, Rev. Fr. Victor Machado then welcomed the gathering. He attempted giving Fr. Peter D’souza a picture of the Pastoral Institute and it’s functioning.

A Priest can never belong to a single place permanently. His life is marked by changes i.e. changes in the place where he works and changes with the people with whom he associates. Nothing is permanent in the life of the priest other than his missionary work.  Fr. John Vaz, the Bishop’s representative then formally handed over the responsibility of the Director of the Pastoral Institute in Fr. Peter D’souza’s hands.

Rev. Fr.Peter D’souza then addressed the gathering. Fr. Peter D’souza in a concise manner tried to elucidate his feelings on having received this change in his life. He thanked the parishioners of Derebail for their support and co-operation for the past 6 years and requested the members of the Pastoral Institute for their support in the future.

Fr. John. Vaz then spoke out his feelings on this occasion. He congratulated and wished Fr. Peter D’souza good luck in his missionary work. This was followed by the deliverance of Vote of thanks. Refreshments were then served.

Report by: Lynsha Lobo
Pictures: Simon Pereira