Fatima Ward Celebrates 11th Vado Fest

Report : Mrs. Gretta Mendonca.

We, the members of Fatima Ward with much joy and enthusiasm gathered together and
celebrated our 11 th Vado Fest on 27 th November in the house of Frederick Gretta
Mendonca. On 26 November at 4 pm we offered a Thanksgiving Eucharist, praising God
for the blessings received and for the possibility of celebrating our Vado Fest for the 11 th
time.
The stage was graced with the presence of our beloved Parish Priest Fr. Jerome
Monteiro, resident priest Fr. Pascal Menezes, Sr. Pauline the community leader of
Kripalaya Convent, Our vice president Mr. Richard Mendonca, Secretary, Mrs. Leena
D’Souza, Mrs. Violet Lobo, the coordinator of 20 commissions and our Gurkarn Gretta
Mendonca. All parish ward heads and the presidents of various associations added
much joy to the celebration. All were given a floral welcome. The entire Kripalaya
Community including students was invited to share our joy.
Mrs. Rosaline Gomes, as MC facilitated a smooth flow of the program. The ward
members led a meaningful prayer with appropriate scripture text and hymn to our
Fatima Mai. Prayers were said for those present, those living and the dead. Fr. Pascal
gave a very inspiring message, inviting us to continue to celebrate the feast every year
regardless of our limitations. Later Fr. Jerome also expressed his words of gratitude,
encouraging one and all.
In appreciation for his contribution to our parish, Fr. Pascal Menezes was honored with
shawl, fruits and flowers. Likewise, Mrs. Gretta Mendonca was thanked and honored for
her generous service to the ward for the past 12 years. Evion Coutinho was felicitated
for his excellent performance in 2 nd PU exam in Science. Our young children performed
a graceful dance. Housie game was conducted and prizes were distributed. It was the
privilege of our Gurkarn to express vote of thanks to one and all especially for the
positive atmosphere.
Now it was time for the fellowship meal. Sr. Pauline prayed the grace before meal.
Three senior most members, offering water, invited all to share the meal so lovingly
prepared by the members. All enjoyed a delicious fellowship meal and returned to their
home carrying in their hearts the memories of a joyful celebration.