I have accomplished my mission, says Fr Rebelo

Will serve as parish priest at Rachol

THE GOAN NETWORK

CORTALIM

Stating that he had accomplished his mission, the outgoing Rector of St Joseph Vaz Sanctuary Sancoale Fr Eremito Rebelo said he felt satisfied as his biggest task of sainthood for Joseph Vaz was achieved.

Speaking to The Goan on the eve of his transfer to Rachol as Parish Priest, Fr Rebelo admitted that he had some attachment to the place given his long innings as Rector, but added that priests are servants of the Lord and that they should serve Him wherever they are called.

“I served as Rector for 12 years. Last year I requested my higher ups to relieve me; however, this was accepted this year,” Fr Rebelo told The Goan.

Fr Rebelo, who was seen as the face of many agitations in the State to protect the interest of Goa and Goans, however refused any farewell function, while only accepting a farewell mass which was offered on Sunday.

Incidentally, it is for the first time that 61-year-old Fr Rebelo is presiding over as parish priest. Fr Rebelo, who had a stint as assistant parish priest in Pernem and Cansaulim parishes, had served as professor of Rachol Seminary for 14 years, before serving in Sancoale as rector for 12 years.

Later, Mormugao Dean Fr Vithal Miranda presided over the process of handing over the keys and other rights to the new Rector Fr Manuel Dias, who hitherto was the Chancellor in the Bishop's House.

Villagers were also present at the Sanctuary to bid Fr Rebelo goodbye.