A priest’s life is dedicated to the service of his flock. It is a life of obedience and requires dedication, patience and immense spirituality. Achieving 50 years as an ordained priest is indeed a testimony of faithfulness, devotion and perseverance accompanied by gratitude to God for the call to follow him.

Such a milestone was celebrated by MAC on June 10, 2017 as Rev. Fr. Edwin D’Souza, Spiritual Director of Mangalorean Association of Canada (MAC) and former Parish Priest of Sts. Martha & Mary Catholic Church, Mississauga completed 50 years as an ordained priest.

Fr. Edwin’s celebration started off with a solemn mass presided over by him with co-celebrants, Monsignor Thomas Kalarathil, Rev. Fr. Martin Pereira and Rev. Fr. Andrew Lewis.

A cultural program and dinner was then held in the church hall with guests that included close family and friends. The emcee for the evening, Vidya Alvares welcomed the guests and Jake Pereira’s trumpet rendition of the hymn “How great thou art” set a joyous tone for the remainder of the event. A toast was raised by Janet D’Souza who spoke about Fr. Edwin’s childhood, his spontaneous decision to become a priest, some highlights that included his meetings with Pope Benedict XVI, Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa.

A touching tribute was paid by his sister, Mrs. Celestine Martis who stressed on the close bond between brother and sister.

Virginia Kanary, an ex-parishioner of Fr. Edwin, narrated a moving story about the deep faith, support and solace Fr. Edwin offered in times of her great need.

Prem Lobo, a visiting famous singer from Mangalore composed and dedicated a song to Fr.Edwin. It was sung by Prem, Dora, Renee and Gerry D’Mello accompanied by Wilson D’Souza on the guitar.

A magnificent cake was cut by Fr.Edwin as everyone applauded wholeheartedly.

The highlight of the event was a felicitation ceremony where Manohar Pais, President of MAC, respectfully draped a shawl round Fr. Edwin’s shoulders.

The church hall then reverberated with the fast paced, enthralling Hollywood & Bollywood fusion performance by Elvis Menezes, Symona Albuquerque, Deandra Albuquerque, Kirsten D’Souza and Jayden D’Souza. Kierra Mathias, the young lady with the golden voice sang “Give thanks with a grateful heart” moving people to give her a standing ovation. The incredibly talented Elvis Menezes entertained the guests with a tap dance.

Dinner was a sumptuous and scrumptious spread of dishes cooked to perfection by Konkan Delite. Everyone enjoyed the food which was followed by the mouth-watering delicacy, Vorn.

The Baila sung by Prem Lobo, Manohar Pais, Gerry D’Mello and Wilson D’Souza had everyone swaying and dancing to the melodious tunes.

The evening ended with a Vote of Thanks by Melwyn Menezes, Vice President of MAC who offered his appreciation to the clergy and the guests who participated in this wonderful celebration. Melwyn also thanked each and every one for helping to make this event memorable and successful for Fr. Edwin whose selfless love and caring has endeared him to one and all.

For more pictures of the event click on link below:

https://goo.gl/photos/721c9borpM4uPTMF6

Balmy clear skies, pleasant breeze, shaded trees and lively spirits – even the heavens smiled and cheered as Mangalorean Association of Canada (MAC) concluded the Annual Family Picnic on June 24, 2017 at the Meadowvale Conservation Park, Mississauga.

With the blow of a whistle and a blaring megaphone announcement by emcee, Janet D’Souza for everyone to gather, the festivities began with a prayer invoking God’s blessings and some housekeeping rules.

The first game was for children ages 5 and under and they eagerly played “Passing the ball”. Other new and innovative games such as Leap Frog, Dodge ball, Bottle game and Arm race tested the agility and balance of the children who participated wholeheartedly.

It was gratifying to note that the picnic grounds had a huge gathering of teenagers and young adults who played to win yet demonstrated sportsmanship and enthusiasm. Our seniors were not to be left out as they played Bean Bag Toss with precision and aim. The Family relay was unique as it brought families together in a game of co-operation and mutual competitiveness

Lunch was a delicious array of potluck dishes ranging from sannas, pork, samosas, salads and vegetables. With a thanksgiving prayer, people respectfully and graciously helped themselves to the laid out buffet.

50/50 and Bingo tickets were sold by the committee members after which delicious watermelon was served courtesy of Paul Mathias.

Group games such as volley ball and throw ball generated immense interest among the men and women. Women, young and old, rolled up their sleeves and prepared to play a spirited and aggressive yet enjoyable game of throw ball. The men flexed their muscles and arms and demonstrated their killer instincts and winning edge during the volley ball game. Every single participant in the two games had a thrilling set of games.

The referees, Charles D’Souza and Reynold Sequeira conducted the games ensuring fairplay.

What is a picnic without water? The Water Balloon Throw is one of the most popular organized games among children and adults. As the line-up was formed, men, women and children coached their partners on throwing and catching techniques. Poof! Splat! The balloons broke and drenched the unfortunate but the lucky winners were the ones who were able to successfully catch a water balloon without breaking it.

Tug O War! That heavy rope which determines sheer brute strength, technique and team work! Men and women, children and teens did not hesitate to form teams and in a show of unity heave themselves to victory and the other team to defeat.

While the games were being played, the MAC ladies prepared masala tea and served it with biscuits. Content and replete with a hot cuppa chai, it was time for the 50/50 draw and Bingo. Ably conducted by Reynold Sequeira, the winners were thrilled to make some money.

Manohar Pais, President of MAC introduced Vidya Alvares, the Sports Secretary who successfully masterminded the Annual Picnic and the games. He also presented the remainder of his Executive Committee members and highlighted their portfolios.

Olwin Pereira, Cultural Co-ordinator thanked the community as well as committee members who worked hard to organize the event. A shout out to Ivan Lobo whose camera and photographic skills captured the memorable event and action in beautiful pictures.

As the sun set in the horizon, the evening came to an end, people folded their umbrellas, packed their belongings and left tired but content, smiling and happy to mingle with old friends, share a gossip or two or just soak in the sun with fellow Mangaloreans.

MAC was tremendously successful in its objective to bring the community together, provide a venue to meet and mingle and offer opportunities for our youth to have a day of fun yet show initiative and leadership.

For more pictures of the event click on link below:

https://goo.gl/photos/NuCMYqh2DSdc7Cuc9