MATHARPACADY VILLAGE

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  • Monsoon Splash – 18th June 2017 – Part 1

    Monsoon Splash – 18th June 2017 – Part 1

    The Matharpacady Residents Welfare Association organised the “Monsoon Splash” on Sunday 18th June 2017 from 4.30 pm onwards at St. Isabel’s High School. The core organising team led by Vidhyashri Veloo, along with the other committee members, Charmaine Vongeyer, Renie Baptista, Selma Pulical, Dennis Baptista, Percy D’Souza, Clyde Soares, Canute Monteiro, Joe Pereira, Tyronne Concescio, Stanislaus Baptista and Dr. Gerald Mascarenhas meticulously planned this event with a series of distinctive, amusing and eye-catching games.

    The Rains played their part but did not dampen the spirit of the over hundred participants who enjoyed getting wet and prancing in the rain. The assembled participants were then broken down into four teams by the organisers, under the leadership of their captains as below :

    Captain                       Team Name                Colour

    Wendy Patrao             Thunder                       Red

    Mellicent Fernandes   Lightning                     Yellow

    Avina D’Souza             Rainbow                      Blue

    Kurt Baptista               Puddles                        Green

    At the outset Vidhyashri Veloo, welcomed all the participants and briefed the four captains on the rules for the evening. The four captains were then called upon to recite the Pledge before the opening of the games. The captains affirmed to abide by the rules, play sportingly and spread the message of unity and friendship to all. The team winning first place was eligible for 10 points, while teams coming second would earn 7 points, followed by 4 points for the team winning third place and only one point for the team coming in fourth.

    The participants were divided into five age groups :  3 to 6 years, 7 – 15 years, 16 – 26 years, 27 – 49 years and those 50 years and above.

    Each team had an average of 25 persons ranging from children from 3 years to senior citizens in their 70s.  There were around two to three games for each of the above age groups. In addition, there were three group games – Treasure Hunt, Snake Trust Game and Snakes and Ladders – for participants of all age groups.

     

    Note : Please refer to Monsoon Splash – Part 2 for more details and photographs

    Compiled by Stanislaus Baptista, with inputs from Vidhyashri Veloo

    Photographs courtesy – Stanislaus Baptista

     

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  • Matharpacady Cross Feast – May 2017

    Matharpacady Cross Feast – May 2017

    The Managing Committee of the Holy Cross Oratory organized the traditional Novena Services every evening from 22nd April 2017 onwards culminating in the Feast Day Celebrations on Monday, 1st May 2017.  Daily, young Prayer Leaders led the well attended services on the recital of the Rosary [dedicating each decade for a particular intention], the litany of Our Lady of the Rosary, litany of the Cross and litany of St. Roque [patron saint of the Village who had protected the residents from the scourge of the deadly plague that ravaged Bombay]. Boiled gram was distributed by helpful aunties and on Vespers evening ragda puri as a generous treat from an uncle.

    On Monday, 1st May 2017, a large gathering of over 350 residents, friends and well wishers gathered in the village center around the altar on a stage, with a backdrop and under a canopy of decorative lights leading to the illuminated Holy Cross Oratory.  The Celebrant – Reverend Father Shavito Correia [St. John the Evangelist Church and Judge at the Ecclesiastical Court, Archbishop’s House] wended his way from the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, “Eymard Cottage”, behind the altar server holding aloft the Relic of the True Cross, to the bedecked altar to the melodious strains of that beautiful hymn “The World You ave Made Is A Beautiful World”.Have Made Is A Beautiful World”.  Father Shavito, In a very inspiring and thought provoking homily expressed his happiness of being invited and welcomed in Matharpacady Village as he was born and resided in nearby Dockyard, comparing it to Jesus welcome in Capernaum. He expressed his joy at his homecoming to celebrate the 142nd Anniversary Holy Mass for the families in the village and of the  neighbourhood.  He repeatedly stressed on the many values and benefits of the family drawing inspiration from the holy family of Mother Mary, St. Joseph and Jesus.  He spoke of the need of each family member being a conscious and active participant in building and strengthening family bonds by making and finding time to be together, speak and discuss matters with one another, pray together and share a meal as a family.  Father Shavito spoke of the both the very visible and hidden dangers posed by the rapid advances of information technology, social media and networking whereby individuals and laity, and even the clergy, are glued to their mobiles and smartphones, and have no tine to share and grow in family needs and relationships and thus sadly have gone astray.  He reiterated that at this Eucharistic Feast Mass all of us should pray fervently and invoke the blessings of our Risen Lord to guide us, protect us and bless all our family members to follow in the footsteps of His family.  Father Shavito blessed the congregation with the Relic of the True Cross as Holy Mass ended.  The President, Mrs. Carole Viegas expressed the deep gratitude to Father Shavito on behalf of the Managing Committee, as well as our thanks to Father Frank Fernandes, Parish Priest, Rosary Church. 

    Families made their way to the Oratory to kiss and venerate the Relic of the True Cross, and thereafter collect their refreshment box of tasty goodies. Folk mingled around center stage exchanging feast day greetings and settled down for two games of bingo and an endearing entertainment program staged by young children. Feedback from residents and friends said that the Holy Mass and inspiring homily were meaningful and the celebrations most enjoyable.

    Tyronne Concescio, Honorary Secretary, Holy Cross Committee

    Photographs courtesy : Stan Baptista

     

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  • Cruise Ship Diaries – Seven

    Cruise Ship Diaries – Seven

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    The eight group of around 180 visitors from Germany visited our Village on 12th and 13th February 2017. These tourists have been coming to Mumbai by Cruise Ships starting from  Dubai, then travelling to Mumbai, New Mangalore, Goa, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and then back to Dubai. They had come by the Cruise Ship “Aida Aura”. Their stopover in Mumbai is mainly for one night or maximum two nights. One of their must visit places while in Mumbai is to our Heritage Village at Matharpacady. Besides a walk around our heritage precinct to explain the history of the various landmarks, the visitors are treated to snacks/brunch by Hansel Baptista at his residence. Almost all the visitors are surprised that such a quaint, quiet little place exists in the heart of the city.

    Note : Photographs of visitors who visited our village on 13th February 2017.

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  • Christmas Festivities – Christmas Tree – Part One

    Christmas Festivities – Christmas Tree – Part One

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    The Managing Committee of the Holy Cross Oratory and the Residents’ Welfare Association ALM worked in unison to decorate the many by lanes of Matharpacady Village with illuminative decorative symbols of stars, Christmas trees, hearts, hexagonal and triangular shaped illustrative lanterns fitted with mini loudspeakers. Our youth creatively put up the Crib in the Holy Cross Oratory, which was flanked just outside by a decorated live towering Christmas tree. Resident families spruced up their homes with fresh coats of paint, buntings, frenzied shopping, Church choir and other activity practices. Tantalising aromas of traditional food, baked goodies and delicacies wafted the air, making mouths drool in lip-smacking anticipation of festive visits to various aunties homes.

    Children in droves flocked to the Christmas Tree Celebrations organised by Julius Valladares, Canute & Vera Monteiro and Avina D’Souza on Friday, 30th December 2016 in the village center. Tiny tots, kiddies and youth took part in innovative games and races shrieking in mirth and joy, cheered on by their doting parents and friends. Santa Claus arrived in his colourful sleigh drawn by Rudolph the Red nosed reindeer, amidst much merriment and singing, to gift prizes and goodies to all the participating children. This was an enchanted evening for all children and residents.

    Families in Matharpacady pray and hope for a happy and peaceful year ahead for all their near and dear ones, the Parish Community, the Universal Church and India, our Motherland.

    Compiled by Tyronne Concescio. Photographs courtesy – Stan Baptista

    Note: More photographs of the Christmas Tree in Part Two

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  • Christmas Festivities in Matharpacady – Thanksgiving Service

    Christmas Festivities in Matharpacady – Thanksgiving Service

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    The Managing Committee of the Holy Cross Oratory and the Residents’ Welfare Association ALM worked in unison to decorate the many by lanes of Matharpacady Village with illuminative decorative symbols of stars, Christmas trees, hearts, hexagonal and triangular shaped illustrative lanterns fitted with mini loudspeakers. Our youth creatively put up the Crib in the Holy Cross Oratory, which was flanked just outside by a decorated live towering Christmas tree. Resident families spruced up their homes with fresh coats of paint, buntings, frenzied shopping, Church choir and other activity practices. Tantalising aromas of traditional food, baked goodies and delicacies wafted the air, making mouths drool in lip-smacking anticipation of festive visits to various aunties homes.

    The Managing Committees organized a well attended Thanksgiving Prayer Service on Tuesday night, 27th December 2016 at the Holy Cross Oratory, presided over by Rev. Fr. Frank Fernandes, Parish Priest, Rosary Church. Vincent was instrumental in preparing this service and the choir. Light refreshments were served to all and families enjoyed some brief entertainment too – A Christmas Quiz and a game of Housie.

    On 31st December 2016, many residents attended the Thanksgiving Vigil and Holy Mass at Church. Families ushered in New Year’s Day meeting and greeting loved ones, relatives and friends. Some socialized at house parties and seasonal receptions in the city on New Year’s night.

    Families in Matharpacady pray and hope for a happy and peaceful year ahead for all their near and dear ones, the Parish Community, the Universal Church and India, our Motherland.

    Compiled by Tyronne Concescio. Photographs courtesy – Stan Baptista

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  • Christmas Festivities in Matharpacady – Carol Singing

    Christmas Festivities in Matharpacady – Carol Singing

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    The Managing Committee of the Holy Cross Oratory and the Residents’ Welfare Association ALM worked in unison to decorate the many by lanes of Matharpacady Village with illuminative decorative symbols of stars, Christmas trees, hearts, hexagonal and triangular shaped illustrative lanterns fitted with mini loudspeakers. Our youth creatively put up the Crib in the Holy Cross Oratory, which was flanked just outside by a decorated live towering Christmas tree. Resident families spruced up their homes with fresh coats of paint, buntings, frenzied shopping, Church choir and other activity practices. Tantalising aromas of traditional food, baked goodies and delicacies wafted the air, making mouths drool in lip-smacking anticipation of festive visits to various aunties homes.

    On Friday, 23rd December 2016 night, a group of residents, led by Vincent Mascarenhas and his daughter, assembled at “Eymard Cottage”, the Blessed Sacrament Provincial House and went around carol singing : “Silver bells, Silver Bells”. Yes, it was really Christmas time in the village and environs. Midnight masses at Rosary Church and St. Anne’s were well attended. Families gathered together for the traditional lunch on Christmas Day and visited the homes of relatives and friends, whilst  the youth spent late evening at dances and house parties.

    Compiled by Tyronne Concescio. Photographs courtesy – Stan Baptista

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  • Mumbai takes a bow as Goa-born violinist celebrates 100th birthday

    Jun 30 2015 : The Times of India (Mumbai)

    Mumbai : TNN

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    “Now tell me, do I look that old?“ asked Mauro Alphonso, grinning as he posed for photographs, his violin in tow. He certainly did not.

    As he laughed and chatted with family members on Monday evening, and recollected anecdotes from years ago, it was hard to believe the Mazgaon resident was celebrating his 100th birthday . The occasion marked not only a century of an adventure-filled life, but also several decades of old Bombay’s musical heritage, of which the garrulous gentleman had been a vital part.

    Alphonso was 12 years old when he left his home in Goa’s Taleigaon village and moved to Mumbai to pursue his love for music. Soon, he specialized in playing the violin.

    The early days of his career saw Alphonso playing with the Mehli Mehta Orchestra, and then leading several other orchestras in Bombay .During the 1940s, Alphonso was popular on the city’s music circuit. He performed with artistes like Dominic Pereira and Gopi Krishna, and was a familiar face at gigs hosted by venues like the Taj Mahal hotel, at Parsi weddings and even on All India Radio.

    At a special party on Sunday , the family plans to ensure the celebration does full justice to grandpa Alphonso, who ensured future generations didn’t fall out of tune. His three sons inherited his love for music and played at the Taj, when they were as young as 6, 9 and 12 years old respectively . Alphonso also formed the Alph Brothers group (it was later called Alph Tzigane Trio) with them. TNN

    Source : The Times of India, 30th June 2015, Page 3.

  • Tourist Guide Association of Mumbai

    Tourist Guide Association of Mumbai

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    On Monday, 8th June 2015 around 35 persons from TOGA, The Tourist Guide Association of Mumbai visited our village at around 8.30 am. They were welcomed by the committee members of the Matharpacady Residents Welfare Association and the Holy Cross Oratory. Julius Valladares and Hansel Baptista took them around the village precinct and explained the history of the various landmarks in the area alongwith the other committee members. They were taken aback on being welcomed warmly by our residents and appreciated the cleanliness and maintenance being done to preserve our area. In fact, many of them mentioned that our village scores higher points on quite a few aspects with respect to Khotachiwadi. After the tour round the village – significance of the Holy Cross Oratory, the village well, the numerous well maintained bungalows as well as a visit to the Club of Paroda – they were treated to some light snacks and cold drinks at the residence of Hansel Baptista. A short video was screened for them highlighting the various cottages and areas of the village. A small memento presented to each and every member on behalf of the village was greatly appreciated by them.

    We given below a couple of messages received from some of them after their visit :

    Dear Mr.D`Souza,

    TOGA, the Tourist Guide Association of Mumbai, are extremely happy at the welcome and hospitality the residents of Matharpacady laid out for us today.

    The love and pride you have for your heritage  and the unity, bonhomie and affection between the residents will be etched in our memory forever.

    We will forward your information to tour operators to make your village famous. And we will send you all the contacts essential for the preservation of your village for your next generation.

    We thank you for your heartful hospitality.

    Thanking you,

    Yours sincerely,
    For TOGA
    Jerroo Bharrucha
    President    ”

    Mr Manas A – The pleasure was all ours. We had a great time & were touched with your hospitality. We will certainly ……

    Mr Arun S – The whole group really enjoyed your talk and appreciated the effort of the community in making our trip a wonderful experience – Thanks once again for the effort.

    Photographs : Courtesy Andrew D’Sylva

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  • Telegames – 7th June 2015 – Matharpacady Village

    Telegames – 7th June 2015 – Matharpacady Village

    The Matharpacady Residents Welfare Association is organising the “Matharpacady Monsoon Dhamal” on Sunday, 7th June 2015 from 4.00 pm onwards at the St. Isabel’s High School grounds. Invitation passes are available with Canute, Stanley, Prince, Merwyn, Benny & Frumie. It will be an evening of fun & frolic with Telegames being organised, in addition to a Treasure Hunt, and Dancing besides some snacks & dinner. Food coupons are being sold seperately. Get hold of your invitations at the earliest as there are a limited number available for taking part in the various teams for the telegames. Looking forward to seeing you all there.

  • 140th Anniversary Cross Feast Celebrations

    140th Anniversary Cross Feast Celebrations

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    Preparatory Novena Services at the Holy Cross Oratory in Matharpacady Heritage Precinct commenced on Tuesday, 22nd April 2015.  Managing Committee Member Mr. Hansel Baptista appointed daily Prayer Leaders from all areas of the village and ably organized the services, which were attended by about 100 persons.  Traditional distribution of boiled gram was done by Mrs. Muriel Baptista.  Captain Julius Valladares and his team of youth made lip smacking sev-puri, ragda puri and medhu vadas on separate Novena days that the faithful relished.  High points of the Novena on penultimate days, organized by Hansel, was a Pentitential Service with Confessions heard by Rev. Father Dhanam at “Eymard Cottage”, the Blessed Sacrament Headquarters on 29th April 2015, and, a Holy Half-Hour Silent Adoration Service on 30th April 2015, which was well attended. We are grateful to Rev. Father Frank Fernandes, Parish Priest, Rosary Church, for his kind permission to our Managing Committee.

    Catholic resident families with their relatives, guests and well wishers gathered in large numbers in the heart of Matharpacady Heritage Village for the landmark religious and festive celebrations on Friday evening, 1st May 2015.   His Lordship Bishop John Rodrigues, the Rector of St. Pius X College at Goregaon, with concelebrant Rev. Father  Dhanam   were escorted in a solemn procession from the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at ‘Eymard Cottage’ to the newly renovated  Holy Cross Oratory.   His Grace Bishop John Rodrigues was welcomed  by the assembly of over 350 devout people and the chiming of the Oratory bell.   Intoning solemn prayers whilst incensing the original heritage Holy Cross and Oratory, His Lordship invoked God’s abundant blessings on the residents and families, before blessing  a commemorative brass plaque installed in front of the  Oratory.  He then proceeded to the raised beautifully decorated center-stage to celebrate the Eucharistic Sacrifice along with Rev. Father Dhanam of the Blessed Sacrament Fathers.  In an inspiring homily, His Grace Bishop John fondly recollected his boyhood days spent along with his brothers Luke and Savio at the home of their Uncle Wency and Aunty Rose D’Mello, Their bungalow was adjacent to the Cross Oratory.  Throughout his homily Bishop John emphasized that God the Father and Jesus ask nothing at all from us despite all our human failings.  We should keep our hearts and minds always open to receive their boundless love and divine gifts, personified in the outstretched arms of Jesus on the Cross.  He hoped we would continue in good faith our religious traditions of honoring the Holy Cross down the decades, as the Cross of Christ is the sole means of protecting us from harm and evil.  The zestful  choir, well  trained by Austin Alphonso, gladdened the hearts of the faithful as they led in glorious song and praise to the Lord.  Hansel Baptista and Vincent Mascarenhas did a commendable job with the Mass liturgy, the choir, and after the Final Blessing with the Relic of the True Cross,  the veneration of the Relic at the Oratory.  Volunteers disbursed a box of tasty refreshments to every person who attended the Feast Mass.

    The Managing Committee organized an entertainment program for His Grace Bishop John Rodrigues,  Rev. Father Dhanam, our main benefactors for the renovated Oratory – Brendon and Therese Pereira, other guests and the large audience.  Little children, the youth and even adults staged good performances with songs and dance, to the constant applause of an appreciative audience.   Thereafter, games of ‘housie’ kept  people happy with their fingers crossed  for Dame Fortune to smile and reward them.   During the entertainment and ‘housie’, mango juice was served freely to one and all to quench their thirst and clamour for more fun filled events by the Managing Committees of the Holy Cross Oratory and the Matharpacady Residents Welfare Association.

    The Managing Committee wishes to thank all the donors and benefactors who so generously contributed towards defraying the expenses for the renovation of the Oratory as well as the expenses towards the Novena and Feast Day celebrations.

    Photographs – Courtesy Andrew D’Sylva

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