News & Pics: Rohan Sequeira, Pakshikere
May 3: It was a much awaited day come to true as the Altar boys and girls of our parish went for a pilgrimage to Goa. The journey began from the church at 6.30am and boarding in the Mangalore-Verna local Train at 7:15 am on 16th April 2011.All was very enthusiastic and throughout the journey the group was kept alive with songs and jokes besides enjoying the scenic beauty. Upon reaching Goa they were welcomed by the sisters of the Apostolic Carmel of the Holy Rosary Convent where they pitched their stay. Without wasting any time they went to historical Dona Paula beach and thereafter they moved to Nachinola Old Age Home run by the sisters of the Queen of the Apostles. Srs. Renny, Immaculate and Shamitha welcomed them all. Fr. Anil D’Souza the spiritual director of the Altar server’s celebrated the Holy Eucharist in Konkani for all of them and thanked God for the safe journey. At the end of the Mass they began the Way of the Cross and prayed first two of them. Thereafter they spent some time interacting with the inmates of the house.
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The second day 17th morning they were up early and attended mass in the Basilica dedicated to St Ignatius Loyola, where the remains of St.Francis Xavier are revered. It was the great privilege and a rare opportunity to attend Palm Sunday Mass and begin their Holy week. After the mass they were taken to watch a sound and light programme on the life of Jesus, St.Francis Xavier and Blessed Joseph Vaz. In the Cathedral of Bom Jesus another four Stations of the Cross were meditated.
There were many other places they visited among which Museums, St Francis of Assisi Church, St Catherin’s Church, St Cajetan’s Church and St Pius Pastoral Institute were they had their mid day meal. And thereafter they visited St Monica’s Church where the Weeping Cross is placed and remains of the St Augustin’s Church Bellfry. On the way back they visited Fr.Agnel’s church and Tomb, Theological seminary and Museum. The last place to visit was the house of Blessed Joseph Vaz where he lived and the room where he prayed and had intimacy with God. They all knelt down in the prayer room of Blessed Joseph Vaz to pray and conclude the Way of the Cross.
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On the 3rd day 18th we visited Our Lady of Remedies church at Monte,Consolim Chapel of Three Kings. Rest of the time was spent in Majordha beach with much fun. Thus the pilgrimage ended as they boarded the 2.15pm Verna-Mangalore train. They left Goa with lots of sweet memories. Upon reaching back to St Jude Church the children extended their gratitude to Rev Fr Anil, Srs Anthoniamma and Gracy, Mrs Lucy and Mr Sundeep. The Altar servers will never forget Sr Divya A.C who arranged the accommodation, food and transportation.
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