LONDON
The Canons Leisure Centre in London was filled with reverence and devotion as the 97th Commemoration Mass in honour of Ven. Fr Agnelo took place on November 24.
Organised by the Association of the Friends of Ven. Fr Agnelo, UK, the event brought together hundreds of faithful, including the vibrant Goan community, who gathered to pay their homage to the revered priest and to pray for his beatification.
The Eucharistic celebration, which was marked by an atmosphere of solemnity and joy, was held under the theme: “Inspired by Ven. Agnelo, Let Us Be Dynamic Evangelizers of the Word of God.” The Mass was a reminder of Fr Agnelo’s profound impact on the Catholic community and his continuing legacy as a model of evangelisation.
The Mass was presided over by Rt. Rev. Patrick Lynch, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Southwark, who served as the principal celebrant.
In his homily, Bishop Lynch reflected on the life of Ven. Fr. Agnelo, urging the congregation to follow his example by becoming more active and enthusiastic in spreading the Word of God. The celebration also featured several other priests who contributed to the liturgical ceremony, including Fr Renato Andrade, Fr Stephen Dias, Fr Feroz Fernandes, Fr Jerry Fernandes and Fr Lucas Rodrigues, Society of Pilar representatives, along with Fr Nelson Lobo, OFM Cap, and Fr Oliver Antao. Their participation helped make the Mass a deeply spiritual and communal event.
The St Anselm’s Church Choir, Southall, provided the music for the Mass, leading the congregation in hymns.
The Mass also highlighted the ongoing efforts to promote the beatification of Fr. Agnelo. The Association of the Friends of Ven. Fr Agnelo, UK, under the leadership of Mario Fernandes, continues to work tirelessly in this mission. This annual commemoration serves as both a spiritual reflection and a call to action for the faithful.
Following the Mass, the community gathered for a joyful get-together, where attendees were treated to a selection of snacks and food. The atmosphere was warm and festive, where everyone participated in a raffle with more than 15 prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day.
“The event concluded with happy and graceful faces, as the community celebrated not only their shared faith but also the bonds of friendship that make such commemorations all the more special,” stated Mario Fernandes.
