SAN FRANCISCO
The Goan Institute of San Francisco celebrated the feast of St Francis Xavier at the Our Lady of Mercy Church in Daly City, on December 6 with traditional fervour.
The Mass was celebrated by Fr Louis Lava, SJ, an Indian priest who belongs to the Diocese of San Jose. He delivered an inspiring homily on St Xavier and said the Goans are the spiritual children of St Xavier.
After Mass, the congregation proceeded to the church hall, where they were greeted by the Managing Committee President Neil D’Souza, Vice-President Steven Fernandes, Secretary Allen Albuquerque and Treasurer Glenn Lobo. Their spouses were at hand to make sure everything went as planned.
As the crowd mingled, they helped themselves to the Goan tradition ‘Chonne with coconut chips’.
The caterer, Tinto served a buffet lunch with dishes like sorpotel, pulao, chicken curry, noodles with veggies, rolls, salad and pickle made by Debbie Alburquerque.
After lunch, the D.J Kipp Scott played some music for the kids. The young kids had a rollicking time, pushing the tiny chairs all over the hall. Little Zara and Amaya Davis were seen distributing water bottles to the tables.
There was hush as Santa Claus came in with the goodies and for the photos.
After the children’s party was over, Kipp played some fast numbers and most people got on their feet to dance, and not even the chilly weather of Daly City could dampen their enthusiasm. Games of Bingo were played and tea with snacks like pumpkin pie were served.
As our Goans are spread over most cities of the Bay Area, this is a good occasion for them to meet and greet each other.
