Fr Santan Gama seen with Bishop Allwyn Baretto and other priests. Captured by : Louis Rodrigues
BELAGAVI
Bishop of Sindhudurg Rev Dr Allwyn Baretto has stated that receiving a call from above for priesthood is nothing less than a miracle.
He also praised the role of priests in shaping people through their prayers, sermons, and confessions. Bishop Baretto spoke at the Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee of Fr Santan Gama, parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Valpoi. The Eucharistic celebration took place at Our Lady of Piety Church, Belgundi village, approximately 12 km from Belagavi, followed by a felicitation programme.
“I feel blessed that I received a call from God to serve his people. Although I have lost my parents and loved ones, wherever I have served, I have been blessed with many people who have shown me their love and affection like a family. I thank God for this,” Fr Gama said. He also encouraged people to inspire and support their children to consider priesthood.
Belgundi villagers organised a grand felicitation for Fr Gama. Along with a large number of priests and nuns from Belagavi and Goa, a significant number of people from the Belagavi region attended the celebrations. Parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Valpoi, were also in attendance.
