THE DIOCESAN VIANNEY DAY AT NAVSARI
One of the most frightening prayers of St. Jean Marie Vianney were, “My God, grant me the conversion of my parish; I am willing to suffer all my life whatsoever it may please thee to lay upon me; yes, even for a hundred years I am prepared to endure sharpest pains, only let my people be converted.” God heard his prayer and granted strong will power to endure the difficult moments of his ministry. The diocesan clergy of Baroda took some time out from their endearing, enduring & challenging ministry on the 11th this month to celebrate our Patron saint’s day at Navsari. It was an occasion to increase our priestly fervor and celebrate our brotherhood as one diocesan clergy under the headship of our dear Bishop Godfrey de Rozario. The gathering of almost 35 priests had changed the ambiance of the church compound. The joy of meeting, wishing & sharing had truly elevated our spirit of fellowship.
After the initial friendly meeting, this close-knit community of priests gathered in the church to celebrate the festive day’s Eucharist. It was a re-union of a family, raising all our prayers & concern of the diocese to the Almighty God. After the short introduction by Fr. Joel Pais, the VG of the diocese, the bishop warmly greeted & welcomed us to join the Eucharistic celebration. The surprise announcement made by the bishop brought smiles on everyone’s face. It was a real joy to hear the increment of our Congrua and mass-stipends. The homily time was a sharing time. The Bishop invited everyone to share the values or the signal qualities of St. Vianney that struck us the most. After a long sharing the bishop gave us his solemn blessings.
After the Eucharist the generous host, Fr. Robert Machado served us a five-star meal. The number of yummy cuisines not only nourished our physical body but also reinvigorated our missionary spirit to work & pray for the conversion of all the faithful in the Diocese.
- Fr. Paul D’Silva
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