LONDON
A number of Goans and other parishioners of St Mary’s Catholic Church in Swindon came together in a display of faith, community spirit and generosity at the 4th Annual Dine & Dance held in the Punjabi Community Centre on October 3.
The event, attended by approximately 250 people, was organised to raise funds towards the much-anticipated extension of St Mary’s Church and the construction of a new parish hall.
The event raised an impressive £17,000 through ticket sales, raffle tickets, sponsorships and generous donations.
The event was organised by the St Mary’s Church Fundraising Team, led by Natasha Vas, together with Jeron Gonsalves, Rocky Britto, Maria Alina De Mello, Joseph Fernandes, Roque Caldeira, Seby De Vasco and Maurice Vas. Their dedication and months of planning ensured a memorable evening enjoyed by all.
“This achievement brings the parish one step closer to its ambitious goal of raising funds towards the estimated £2.5 million church extension project. To date, approximately £70,000 has already been raised through various fundraising initiatives,” said Natasha.
Guests were warmly welcomed by a Marian-themed entrance display featuring Mother Mary surrounded by angels which was created by fundraising group members, Roque Caldeira and Rocky Britto, symbolising the patronage of St Mary.
The programme began with a prayer and blessing of the food by Parish Priest Fr Dominic Findlay-Wilson, who later delivered a speech outlining the vision and determination behind the church extension project. He shared details of the plans and encouraged parishioners to continue supporting this important initiative for future generations.
Entertainment throughout the evening was hosted by MC Melrick, while live performers, Jus Leo & Zie with Val and DJ Rodney kept guests dancing and entertained with a wide selection of music.
One of the highlights of the evening was the participation of the St Mary’s Children’s Choir, who performed the song “A Smile Can Change the Day.” Later, alongside Fr Dominic’s ceremonial cake cutting, the choir sang the Marian hymn “Mary, How Beautiful Thy Name.”
Guests travelled from various locations, including London and Maidenhead, to support the fundraiser. Among the guests in attendance was advocate Iris Rodrigues and his wife.
In his brief address, Rodrigues praised the efforts of the parish and fundraising team and expressed his willingness to assist the church extension project by reaching out to friends and contacts who may be able to support the cause.
Acts of extraordinary generosity were seen throughout the evening. Lovino Goes, proprietor of Goes Catering in Goa, who travelled from Goa to attend the event, purchased £400 worth of raffle tickets, won the first prize and then generously donated the £500 prize value back to the church extension fund.
Another parishioner, Edwin Coutinho, purchased the remaining raffle tickets worth £380, helping the organisers achieve a complete sell-out.
The atmosphere was vibrant and joyful as parishioners and guests enjoyed a spread of Goan and international cuisine, including Pulao Rice, Pork Sorpotel, Beef Assado, Chicken Xacuti, Vegetable Korma, Chicken Chow Chow, Chicken pasta, salad, fruit custard and ice cream.
In her vote of thanks, Natasha Vas highlighted the many fundraising activities undertaken by the parish, including weekend food sales, table-top sales, race nights, sleep-outs and annual Dine & Dance events.
She also encouraged parishioners to become involved in the church’s many ministries and volunteer groups, helping to support the dedicated volunteers who serve the parish throughout the year.
The organising committee thanked Rochel Cardoso, Luis D’Sa, Freddy Fernandes, Emilia, Eusefio, Angelo, Nancy Fernandes, Reginald Britto and Divine Fernandes for their invaluable support.
The committee also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the “14 Boys from Iceland Swindon 1” group, Lawrence Gonsalves, Caitan Gonsalves, Domingos Gonsalves, Jacob Gonsalves, Eusebio Gonsalves, Santan Dias, Chris Pinheiro, Romeo Vaz, Francis Vaz, Franky Cortez, Casmiro Borges, Alvito Fernandes, Rocky Britto and Mario Gonsalves, who contributed £1,500 towards the venue costs. Their support played a significant role in making the event possible.
As the evening concluded at 11 pm, parishioners joined together to clear the venue, demonstrating the community spirit that defines St Mary’s Catholic Church.
“The success of this fourth annual Dine & Dance reflects the unity, generosity and determination of the parish community. With continued support and fresh fundraising ideas, St Mary’s moves ever closer to making its vision of a larger church and parish hall a reality,” said Natasha.
