Early in December 2024 a few residents got together to decorate the bylanes of the Heritage Village with a canopy of multi-hued stars, Christmas trees, bells, and twinkling fairy lights in the vicinity of the Holy Cross Oratory, all leading to “Bethlehem” – the humble crib in the Holy Cross Oratory. By mid December, Christmas carols wafted in the wintry air bringing cheer and smiles of gladness to residents and visitors walking through this idyllic village.
The Historic Matharpacady Village held its Annual Thanksgiving Service on December 30, 2024 at the Holy Cross Oratory. In 1875 Matharpacady Village consecrated itself to the Cross of Christ in gratitude for the Village being saved from the Great Plague. Ever since the Holy Cross Oratory has been the spiritual centre of the Village enshrining the values of love, joy and peace. The Thanksgiving Service was of the residents, by the residents but for Jesus Christ from whom all love and goodness flows. After a short introductory prayer by Rev. Fr. Nigel Barrett, Parish Priest, Rosary Church in which we remembered David Baptista who passed away suddenly this Christmas Day, we stood in silence and remembered all those who also passed on to a New Life in 2024. Picturing ourselves as a victorious army whose leader Jesus Christ had already won the battle, the Service took off with a rousing rendition of the hymn “We’re together again”. Rev. Fr. Suresh SSS, of the Blessed Sacrament Fathers lifted up our Prayers of Thanksgiving to the Lord. The Thanksgiving segment was a series of testimonies from members of the congregation about what miracles Jesus had wrought in their lives. For each blessing they gave thanks. Then followed a series of petitions believing that on the Cross by the shedding of His own blood, Jesus had got us the Victory. We covered those expecting a baby, those about to get married and each milestone or mundane item of life, requiring prayers. Rev. Fr. Merwyn D’Souza, Assistant at Rosary Church ended this Service with a brief prayer on behalf of all present. We ended with hymns and Carols.
Since it is the Christmas Season a small social with eats, soft drinks and housie followed. Prizes were given to all the winners.
Residents and well wishers were reminded about the forthcoming 150th Anniversary of the Holy Cross Oratory on 1st May 2025. A core group will be formed for this occasion. Residents are requested to please contact Roydon Gonsalves to work towards these Anniversary celebrations.
A Big Thank You to all those who helped in organising this Thanksgiving Service – by giving their time and money selflessly.
May the Spirit of this season bring Joy, Hope and Love to the hearts of many.
