LONDON
Hundreds of Goans work in various positions at all terminals of Heathrow Airport in London and they have become an integral part of the airport.
Such has been their reverence to their ‘Goencho Saib’ and attachment to Heathrow airport, that the Goan community under the banner of ‘United Friends Heathrow, London’ decided to celebrate the Feast Mass in honour of the Saint for the first time in the airport itself on December 3.
The Feast Mass was celebrated by Fr Tekura Igbe and attended by Lead Chaplain Ruth Bottoms of Heathrow Multi Faith UK at the St George Chapel in Terminal 2 of Heathrow airport.
Goan Christian, Hindu and Muslim employees from Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 as well as employees from various nationalities and faiths made time to participate in the Mass, promoting close bonds of unity and integration in the celebration of the Feast.
It was a great and special feeling when the Konkani hymn to St Francis Xavier was sung during Mass in the airport.
Many Goans could not attend the Mass because of their shift timings and work commitments but they visited the chapel and venerated the statue of St Francis Xavier in the chapel, especially in the evening.
Many Goans volunteered their services in different aspects before and during Mass, which included matters pertaining to health, security and safety issues, especially since this was the first such celebration of its kind. Those who were involved in the arrangements included Herteberto De Melo along with Organising Secretary Deepak Naik and Taufic Bepari of the United Friends Heathrow, London.
Heathrow Chaplain authorities were supportive of the initiative and accorded their approval to celebrate the Mass.
The Friends United Heathrow, London have decided to celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis Xavier with a Konkani Mass next year.
The Mass was followed by a social gathering when people met up and exchanged greetings. Snacks and Chicken Biryani was also served during the happy hour.
