Independence Day Celebration & Website Launch at St. Lawrence Parish, Moodubelle

Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic spirit and devotion at St. Lawrence Parish, Moodubelle, on Saturday, 15 August 2026, soon after the 7:30 a.m. Holy Mass celebrated on the occasion of the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The National Flag was unfurled by the Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues. As the chief guest of the programme, Fr. Stephen conveyed Independence Day greetings to all the parishioners. In his message, he reflected on the loving and caring role of Mother Mary, emphasizing that she is to be honoured. He explained that those who seek her intercession are never left empty-handed, as she carries their prayers to Jesus and intercedes for them.

Fr. Stephen also remembered the many leaders and citizens who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the nation. He appealed to everyone to value, preserve and strengthen the freedom that was achieved through their sacrifices.

On this special occasion, was the official launch of the church website. The website was officially launched by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. George D’Souza.

On the occasion, Fr. George expressed his gratitude to Mr. Glen Rebello, Mr. Peter Mendonca, Rev. Fr. Rickson Monteiro and Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues and Deacon Shawn Andrade for their dedicated efforts and months of hard work in developing the website.
The programme was attended by Rev. Fr. George D’Souza, Parish Priest of Moodubelle; Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues, Assistant Parish Priest; Deacon Shawn Andrade, Mr. Pritish D’Sa, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC); Mrs. Jyothi D’Souza, Secretary; and Mr. Loy Fernandes, President of the ICYM Moodubelle Unit.

Ms. Shaina Menezes, Secretary of ICYM, compered the programme.

The celebration concluded on a patriotic and joyful note, bringing together the parish community to remember the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and to renew the commitment to building a united and responsible nation.