Zone 8 of the Rosary Parish ‘ St Roque’ Community, had for the first time initiated having mass at the Holy Cross Oratory on the 30th December 2017, for our elders who are sick and unable to move out of their homes, at Matharpacady Village.
Julius Valladares spearheaded this with his team of animators (specially Charmaine and Canute). He was graciously granted permission from the Parish Priest Fr. Herman, as a special case, since our zone has many elders who cannot make it to the church for even the Sunday mass.
Fr. Earnest of the Blessed Sacrament Fathers , celebrated the Eucharist and it was a special moment to see many of our sick being brought by able volunteers. Prior arrangements were made to set up the place . There was a sense of quiet expectation from everyone. All participated fully with song and prayer.
Soon after the mass there was a sumptuous buffet dinner arranged , out in the open. The Caterer was noticeable by his absence, but truly for his generous heart in providing the meal ‘gratis’. Our team of Volunteers saw that everything was set up and served to all including the soup at the start.
A good helping of Vanilla Ice cream with Chocolate sauce helped to conclude the ‘Agape’ as one would call it, since this was a time to show our love to all those who long to meet one another and have not been out of their homes in a long time.
Games for fellowship helped to make the evening a memorable one.
We thank Team Zone 8 for this special day, and also for all they do to reach out to our elders, who have responded with showers of blessings and affirmations.
Keep up the good work !
Compiled by Vincent Mascarenhas
Photographs courtesy : Stanislaus Baptista
