PANAJI
Fr Romano Gonsalves from Bambolim passed away at the Goa Medical College hospital on Monday. He was 69.
Ordained on May 10, 1983, late Fr Gonsalves had served in different capacities in the Archdiocese, including Asst Parish Priest at Loutolim, Raia, St Estevao and Agassaim, Chaplain in Corjuem-Aldona, the last Chaplain and first Parish Priest at Fatorda, Parish Priest at Velim and Verna.
“His health had deteriorated after being upset when the politically motivated police raided his room while he was parish priest in Velim and police cases were registered against parishioners who came to support Fr Gonsalves. Some of these were seamen and they lost their jobs because of the cases,” said Fr Eremito Rebelo, parish priest at Rachol and a batchmate of late Fr Gonsalves.
“He had been running from pillar to post for many years to get the cases withdrawn but that did not happen and this affected his health. He was later sent to recuperate at the Clergy Home in Porvorim. He passed away at the GMC hospital on Monday.”
“Late Fr Gonsalves had been widely appreciated for preparing groups to participate in various Mando festivals. He was also passionate about training groups for Carol Singing and Hymn Singing festivals/competitions. Besides, he was very proficient in accounts,” recalled Fr Rebelo.
