LONDON
Goans hailing from Merces and other parts of Goa and now residing in Swindon-UK came together for the 11th successive year to celebrate their village feast, Our Lady of Merces, at Wiltshire-Swindon on November 8.
The tradition of celebrating the Merces Parish feast in Swindon began in 2014, when Goans hailing from Merces first started celebrating a Konkani Mass. At that time, Mass would be celebrated once a month, and the priest would travel from another parish to celebrate with the Goan community.
What began in 2014 as a simple Feast Mass in Konkani gradually grew into a full celebration that included a get-together, and eventually, a Dine and Dance. As Konkani Masses were later celebrated regularly every second Sunday of the month at Holy Rood Church, it gave the Goan community an opportunity to celebrate the Feast Mass of Our Lady of Merces.
Merces villagers residing in Swindon came together and contributed funds towards the Feast Mass and the Feast Dine and Dance, keeping the tradition alive year after year. Preparations typically begin six to seven months prior to the feast, when elected committee members and active members of the Swindon Union UK gather to plan and organise the event with dedication and enthusiasm.
The celebration began with the Feast Mass at Holy Rood Church, celebrated by Fr Mark Furtado where the faithful gathered in devotion. A newly arrived statue of Our Lady of Merces, which was brought from Goa, was solemnly blessed, marking a meaningful and spiritual moment for the community.
Later in the evening, a traditional procession inside the hall recreated the heartfelt customs of Merces-Goa. Children led the procession, followed by the ladies and gents walking reverently in honour of Our Lady.
The statue of Our Lady of Merces was carried by the villagers, just as it is traditionally done in Merces. Following the procession, the children joyfully cut the cake, adding warmth and excitement to the celebration.
The festivities continued with a lively Dine and Dance at Venue 3, Swindon. Music by Ashley Keys brought energy to the hall, while MC Delsy hosted the evening with charm and enthusiasm.
A fun game for the children ensured the younger members of the community were happily involved in the event. The entire crew, including the musician, MC, deco and caterers, were those hailing from Merces and gave their best to make the feast a joyous moment to remember.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the hall was decorated by Tommy Fernandes from Nashwyn Art, whose creative work transformed the space into a vibrant and welcoming setting. The catering was done by Marta and Teresa.
“The Feast of Our Lady of Merces in Swindon once again reflected the community’s strong faith, unity, and cultural pride”keeping treasured Goan traditions alive and vibrant far from home. It was a great day to meet fellow Merces villagers under one roof,” said Melissa Fernandes.
“Last year, we celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Merces Swindon Committee and the committee decided to use a part of the profit to support financially struggling families/ individuals in Goa by providing groceries and funds for medication/living expenses.”
