By Gordon DAlmeida
The life of a priest is deeply rooted in faith,compassion and service to people. Transfer is part of a priest in his priestly mission. Now after a stint of 2 years service at Valencia, the time has come to bid goodbye to his present assignment.
A small farewell was organised on 04-05-2024 after 5.00 pm mass. The farewell began with a small welcome by the Parish Council vice president Ronald Rodrigues and the Parish Council Secretary Rita Menezes highlighted the priestly qualities and the enthusiasm with which Fr Vijay fulfilled his priestly ministry in the past 2 years at Valencia.
Fr Roque Parish Priest addressing the crowd mentioned about Fr Vijay that he is a man of great character, simple and humble, always calm and cool, ready to serve, loving and had great love for the sick and the elderly and all sections of the parish. He was a friendly companion to him too.
Fr Vijay sharing his feelings thanked the entire Valencia parish fraternity for trusting him and accepting him as their own. He specially thanked Fr Roque for all the support and guidance he gave in the past two years and looked after him as his own and made him feel away from home. He also thanked past ppc vice president David Pais, current vice president Ronald Rodrigues and secretary Rita Menezes,former church Sacristan Late Aman Rodrigues and present sacristan Wilfred, church office assistant Judy, hall manager Vally, cook Robert. He thanked all the Gurkar's, ward representatives, presidents- secretaries and members of all pious associations for their cooperation and support.
On behalf of the entire church Parish Priest Fr Roque, PPC Vice-President Ronald,Secretary Rita Menezes and Chef Robert presented him bouquet as token of gratitude.
On behalf of Valencia Parishioners, We Thank You Dear Fr Vijay for the support and service you have rendered in the past 2 years at Valencia Church. We wish you all the very best in your future mission. May your priestly life be fruitful and prosperous.