LONDON
Many Goans and others took part in the annual pilgrimage to The Friars, Aylesford, in the heart of Kent-England on September 22.
The Friars, Aylesford, is an ancient religious house of the Order of Carmelites, dating back to the 13th century.
Organised by The Goan Association UK, pilgrims travelled from afar to join together in prayer. Coaches transported pilgrims from different areas in and around London. Besides, many came in their own transport.
The day began with Confessions in the peaceful part of The Friars. This was followed by the Rosary Way, with pilgrims carrying the statue of Our Lady on a bier for the duration of the Rosary procession.
The pilgrims were encouraged to place a photograph of their loved ones on the Altar before Mass, and to make a donation to contribute to the Religious Pilgrimage.
At 12.30 pm, a Eucharistic Service was celebrated by Fr Patrick D’Souza and Fr Renato Andrade, both from the Goan Chaplaincy UK, followed by lunch and the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Relic Chapel.
In his address, Fr Patrick advised the Goan community to be good with each other and work towards the good of others.
Members of the Goan Association UK along with Fr Patrick D’Souza and Fr Renato Andrade plant a birch tree sapling at The Friars, Aylesford.
During the celebrations of Indian Independence Day recently held in London, The High Commissioner of India presented The Goan Association UK with a birch tree sapling to plant in recognition of World Environment Day.
The sapling was planted in the Rosary Way at The Friars. The tree will be visited in years to come by the Goan Community.
The afternoon was enjoyed with the Goans listening and dancing to musical entertainment on the lawn. The Goan community bid farewell to Fr Patrick, the outgoing Goan Chaplain UK, and to welcome Fr Renato, the new Goan Chaplain, UK.
Fr Patrick thanked the Goan Association UK for all the help and support given to the Goan Chaplaincy especially this year’s fundraisers which raised £6,000 plus, of which half will go to the Pilar Fathers and half to the Goan Chaplaincy.
Fr Patrick is hopeful to encourage youngsters to the vocation and thanked all who supported him.
The Goan Association UK thanked all those who attended the pilgrimage and for their continued support, and look forward to next year’s pilgrimage.
