Deva Matha Church, Mogarnad Celebrates 250 Glorious Years
Mogarnad, Bantwal: Deva Matha Church, Mogarnad, marked a momentous milestone with the grand celebration of its 250th Jubilee Year, bringing together Priests, Religious Brothers and Sisters, women who had married and moved away, and families residing outside the parish for a day of faith, fellowship, and thanksgiving.
The celebration commenced with a Solemn Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. Maxim D’Silva, concelebrated by several priests. Rev. Fr. Ivan Michael Rodrigues, Deanery Vicar Forane, delivered an inspiring homily centered on the Word of God, inviting the faithful to reflect on the enduring grace and blessings received over the centuries.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation program was held in the Church Hall. The event began with a soulful prayer song by the Church Choir, setting a reverent tone for the occasion. Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Anil Canute D’Mello extended a warm welcome to all, after which the choir performed the specially composed Jubilee Song, enriching the festive atmosphere.
During the felicitation, religious sisters from the parish, sisters who had served in the local convent, priests from the church family, and priests who had served the parish were honored with mementos as a mark of appreciation and gratitude.
In total, 29 priests, 39 religious sisters, and 29 families who originally hailed from Mogarnad but now reside elsewhere, graced the occasion with their presence—adding deep joy and significance to the Jubilee celebration.
Heartfelt messages were shared by Sr. Sadhana, Fr. Santhosh D’Cunha, and the Chief Guest Rev. Fr. Ivan Michael Rodrigues, each congratulating the parish community on reaching this historic milestone and encouraging continued faith and unity.
A vibrant cultural program followed, featuring lively performances by the youth, including a dance and a skit, which captivated the audience.
Jubilee Convener Mr. Naveen Rajesh proposed the vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the celebration. The event concluded with a prayer before the meal, led by Fr. Simon D’Souza.
Dignitaries present included: Rev. Fr. Ivan Michael Rodrigues, Rev. Fr. Anil Canute D’Mello, Principal Rev. Fr. Naveen Prakash Pinto, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Pereira, Sr. Christine Andrade, Convent Superior Sr. Annie D’Souza, Vice President Mr. Santhosh D’Souza, Secretary Mr. Wilfred Lobo, and 21 Commissions Coordinator Mrs. Emiliana D’Cunha.
Also present were Jubilee Committee members, Parish Pastoral Council members, and a large gathering of faithful parishioners. The program was ably compered by Deacon Avil Santhumayar.
The 250th Jubilee Celebration of Deva Matha Church, Mogarnad, stood as a heartfelt tribute to its rich spiritual legacy, symbolizing faith, unity, and gratitude that have sustained the parish community through generations.
