St Joseph the Worker Feast celebrated 

St Joseph the worker church celebrated with vibrancy and life Parish Day and Youth Day on May 1,2019.

The symphonic rhythm of Vas band accompanied by melodious voices from the choir set the ambience for the Festive Mass. The Main celebrant was Rev  Fr Joseph Martis, Rector of Jeppu Seminary who was joined by Rev Fr Anil D Mello the Parish Priest, Rev Fr Bonaventure Rodrigues, Rev Fr Timothy Saldanha who concelebrated the Mass.

The Mass liturgy was meaningfully conducted by ICYM members. The parishioners devoted themselves to the Mass praising and thanking God for the benisons and graces bestowed on every family. Fr Joseph Martis in his inspirational homily requested the Community to make efforts to build a society of love, knit closely together through faith in Jesus Christ and the bond of fellowship- a fellowship that is concern for each other and reaches out in love and service.

After the Eucharistic Celebration was the cultural programme. Fr Anil DMello presided over the occasion and the chief guest for the programme was Fr Joseph Martis.

The packed church ground had all eyes locked on the giant stage where kids, youth and elderly performed with dynamism and zest. The programme commenced by seeking Almighty’s blessings through a prayer song.

Entailing the formal welcome by Mr. Prakash Pereira, vice president, Parish Pastoral Council the progressive annual report was read by Mr. Jerald Lobo secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council. Jelroy Vas- secretary ,ICYM, then presented the annual report stating the brilliant achievements of the Movement, followed by prize distribution ceremony to honour 300 winners for their remarkable triumph in inter ward competitions like drawing, singing, dance, vegetable/ fruit carving, recycled artwork and sports. The competitions were spaced throughout the year and were held under various categories/age groups– children, youth, middle aged, married couples and elderly. The parishioners, who reached the summit of success, kept toiling day and night, conquering all the obstacles and distractions. Their success is the result of continuous dedication, hard work and persistence.

Mr. . Philip Rebello who sponsored the fellowship dinner was felicitated by Fr Anil D Mello and dignitaries on the dais. After the formal function, a cultural extravaganza was meticulously organized comprising of music, dance and laughter. Popular Konkani songs were flawlessly sung by the youth. Comedy troupe with their rib-tickling jokes had the crowd roaring with laughter. Dance by the dancers of Neermarga parish enthralled the audience with astonishing and breathtaking dance moves. The dances were choreographed by acclaimed choreographer Jatin Lobo.

A value based Konkani play ‘Kashi Karni Thashi Burne’ centered around the theme ‘Life is like a garden, you reap what you sow’ written and directed by illustrious artiste Clarence Pinto was staged by Neermarga performers. Heart touching scenes had musical elements which brought symphony and melody to life. The stage took on hues enhancing the mood of every emotion.

Fr Joseph Martis thanked and congratulated Fr Anil D Mello for his tireless and generous labour and commitment in bringing God’s love and light to the flock entrusted to his care and also appreciated the youth for their laudable performances.

Pawan Pinto and Lydia DSouza compered the entire programme in a creative way. Sapna Gonsalves, president of ICYM issued a message of thanks. On the whole the feast was a celebration of art, creativity, talent and fervor.