Vocation Day celebration by The Commission for Vocation and Formation: Fr. Conel Correa Offers Thanksgiving Mass. Back

Vocation Day celebration by The Commission for Vocation and Formation: Fr. Conel Correa Offers Thanksgiving Mass.

The Commission for Vocation and Formation, Most Holy Redeemer Church Derebail celebrated Vocation Day on 4 May 2024 in a grand manner. The occasion was marked by a Thanksgiving Mass offered by the newly ordained priest Fr. Conel Correa of Bejai ward.  The parish had joyously participated in Fr. Conel's ordination on 2nd May, 2024 in the auspicious presence of the Bishop of Mangalore Diocese and 40 other priests including those from the SVD congregation. Thus, Fr. Conel's  First Mass at Derebail Church on 4 May, 2024 at 5 p.m., gave a very meaningful beginning to the Day of Vocation.

Following the Mass, a brief celebration ensued at the Banquet Hall. Mrs. Felcy Lobo,  the Master of Ceremonies, greeted the attendees and elaborated on the importance of the occasion. The event commenced with an invocation featuring a graceful prayer dance performed by Rachelle Dcunha, Meghan Menezes, and Rishal Dmello. 

The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, accompanied by Fr. Richard Lasrado, Fr. Melwyn Pinto, Fr. Preetham Mendonca, Fr. Conel Correa, Sr. Jacintha, Mrs. Sheela Dsouza (Parish Vice President), Mr. Denzil Pinto (Secretary), Mr. Anil Patrao (Convenor of 21 Commissions) and Mr.Rakesh Dcunha, Convenor were escorted to the stage. Mr.Rakesh Dcunha extended a warm welcome to all present.

Ms. Sherina Lobo announced the names and provided brief biographical information about vocations from Derebail Parish,  who are in the service of the Lord and Church as priests and nuns. Each of them,  who was present was honoured. 
Fr. Conel Correa was the first to be felicitated, followed by Fr. Richard Lasrado, Fr. Melwyn Pinto, Sr. Caroline, Br. Shawn D'silva, Sr. Jacintha, and Sr. Maria.The family members of those Religious who could not attend were honoured with flowers and memento. Fr. Conel  shared his thoughts with the audience. Mr.Ronald Sequeira gave a  brief introduction of Fr.Preetham Mendonca to the parishioners after which he was felicitated.

On the completion of 36 years of his priestly Vocation,  Fr.Joseph Martis was specially honoured. Mr. Ronald Sequeira gave out the details and recounted Fr. Joseph's journey as one among the Lord's chosen few.  Fr. Joseph expressed gratitude for the recognition and shared his thoughts on the mystery of the vocation call. He expressed his desire for more vocations in Derebail. 

Mrs. Benedicta Lobo delivered the Vote of Thanks. Fr. Preetham recited grace before meals. Everyone enjoyed the fellowship dinner, concluding the programme.

Pictures: Simon Pereira