On the auspicious day of 15th August 2022, the Goan Chaplaincy UK in association with members of the the Goan diaspora in the UK celebrated the solemnity of The Assumption of Mother Mary at the St Joseph’s RC Church in Wembley, London. The Feast of the Assumption marks the day when the Blessed Virgin Mary ascended into Heaven. The feast mass was celebrated by Fr. Feroz Fernandes and Fr. Patrick D’Souza at 6:30 pm. This year’s feast also coincided with India’s 75th Independence Day. The Goan community, as part of the Indian diaspora, held the Indian National Flag to mark the occasion. The event was attended by Mr. Floyd Dias Do Rosario, a local activist from Wembley, along with Mr. Clayton Antonio Barreto, Officer at the Indian Embassy in the UK, and Mr. Ravi Vaz, representing Goan Association, UK.
On the same day, a drawing competition was organised for children in the age groups of 4-6 years, 7-9 years and 10-12 years. Children submitted their drawings to the organisers when they arrived at the church and the results were declared after the mass.
In the 4-6 years category, the first ,second and third prize winners were Adele Albuquerque ,Ninoshka DaCruz and Cheryl Fernandes respectively. The 1st prize in the 7-9 years category was won by Greshon Fernandes. Alicia Fernandes won the second prize and Ethan Antonio Barreto won the third prize. In the final category of 10-12 years, the prize was won by Lionel Albuquerque. The event was a great success. Around 1000 people participated in the event which was followed by serving of some Goan snacks and tea. This was the first event of its kind organised by Goa Chaplaincy along with Goans in the UK.
Taking this as an opportunity, the organisers would like to appreciate and thank Ms. Juella Camelo, Ms. Renna DeCruz and Ms. Vencila Costa for their support.
Article by Ryan Fernandes
