HOLY CROSS ORATORY – MATHARPACADY VILLAGE
The Holy Cross Oratory is a religious landmark, well over a century old, situated in the heart of Matharpacady Oart, popularly known as “THE VILLAGE”.
A kind lady, Mrs. Buthello, donated the land for the Oratory. This historical monument was constructed thereon through the munificence of our ancestors, in deep gratitude to God the Almighty Father, who time and again had saved the families in the Village from the most deadly ravages of plague and pestilence. Down the decades and over the years, people have gathered before this humble Oratory to fervently pray and thank the Lord for His protection and blessings bestowed upon them. They also seek refuge and favors through intercessory prayers to St. Roque and our Most Blessed Mother.
The solemn Novena Services every year start in the third week of April. The Feast of the Holy Cross is celebrated on 1st May, commencing with the Eucharistic Sacrifice and followed by joyous festivities.
The devotions at the Holy Cross Oratory are a living witness to the rich spiritual heritage and faith of our forefathers. Many stalwarts from the Village have made ardent efforts to preserve and continue these noble traditions for posterity. Notable among them have been the late Baptista sisters Lily, Daisy and Violet, Mrs. Trilby Lopes, Mr. Lewis D’Sylva, Mr. Wencelaus D’Mello, Mr. Percy Pereira, Mrs. Josephine Miranda, Mr. Peter Miranda, Mrs. Maude Baptista, Ms Louie D’Mello, and others.
The families in Matharpacady Village have always rallied around the Holy Cross Oratory over the many decades, in times of emergency and distress, praying most fervently, especially to our Saviour and Redeemer, the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Roque. They have never failed to heed and answer the cries of those in pain and need.
We will be celebrating 140 years of the Matharpacady Village Cross next year on 1st May 2015.
