Media Release
Bengaluru, Nov 8: Continuing its cherished tradition of remembering and honouring departed members, the Kanara Catholic Association (KCA), Bangalore, offered its annual Remembrance Day Mass at the St Joseph’s Boys’ High School Chapel on Sunday, November 1st.
Vice president, Lunita Pais D’Sa welcomed the gathered to the Mass which was celebrated by Fr Juventius Andrade, CSsR, and provided a meaningful opportunity for KCA member families to come together in prayer and remembrance of their beloved, particularly those who had passed away over the last year.
The Mass started with a poignant candle-lit procession led by family members of our departed members. This shared experience was very meaningful and touching for everyone who made their way towards the Remembrance Table to place their candles as a tribute to their dear ones. Complementing the setting, elegant lavender-themed floral arrangements lent a graceful touch to the chapel décor.
Fr Juvy commenced his Homily with an upbeat surprise melody for everyone to join in with ‘Oh, When the Saints Go Marching In’, inviting everyone to ponder the words, ‘I want to be in that number.’ The congregation were invited to reflect on what it truly meant to be counted among the saints and the willingness, faith and way of life that such a calling demands.
With the observance falling on the eve of All Souls’ Day, he emphasised the importance of praying for one another. He highlighted the importance of family as a source of faith, love and spiritual strength, urging parents and children to pray for each other. With the thought-provoking question, “If we were to die next week, what is the one thing we would want to change in our lives?” he left everyone with a gentle reminder to live with purpose, reconcile with one another and make the most of the time we are given.
The devotional atmosphere of the Mass was enriched by the harmonious choir whose thoughtful hymnal blended familiar English classics and well-known Konkani hymns, including one with bespoke lyrics composed by secretary, Luvena Rangel, who also conducted the choir.
The Mass ended with a vote of thanks delivered by president Roshan Menezes acknowledging the members who showed up in record attendance and filled the Chapel to the seam. The evening concluded on a warm note of fellowship, with snack boxes and tea served to all those present. Members took the opportunity to reconnect and socialise, reflecting the spirit of togetherness and community that has long been at the heart of KCA.
The successful execution of the occasion reflected the collaborative spirit of president Roshan Menezes and the collective efforts of his managing committee. The successful execution of the Mass and flow of events was overseen to precision with attention to detail is a testament of credit to Prajwal Mathias who was the overall MC in charge.
Special note of thanks to:
Lunita Pais D’Sa: Altar and chapel décor and remembrance table
Tejal Menezes: Obituary video
Ramsy Pinto: Hymnal projection
Prajwal Mathias and Luvena Rangel: Choir
Palini Pinto: Remembrance procession
Jane Pereira, Lynn Misquith, Reena Serrao & Joanita: Offertory
Reshma Lobo, Rohan Pais and Sandhya Menezes: Refreshments
The choir comprised Prajwal Mathias, Luvena Rangel, Shoba Pinto, Rona Pinto, Natalie Rodrigues, Lynn Misquith, Dr Maria Bukelo, Clifford Andrews, Celia Andrade, Roy Rodrigues, Sheela Michael and Lawrence Fernandes, with Anson D’souza on the keyboard and Winston D’Souza on the violin.
Through this annual observance, KCA Bangalore once again reaffirmed the importance of faith, family, remembrance and community, keeping alive the memories of loved ones while coming together in prayer and fellowship.