Crescens Lemos sdb MATUNGA, NOVEMBER 1, 2008: “It’s Jubilee Day!” said Fr. Boniface D’Souza, the principal celebrant at the solemn Eucharist at 6.00 pm in the Shrine at Matunga. Salesians from all over the province were present for this festive occasion as eleven confreres celebrated their jubilees: Fr. Boniface D’Souza, Golden Jubilee of Profession; Fr. Elson Barretto, 
Fr. Ian Doulton, Fr. Diego Nunes and Fr. Francis Kharjia, Silver Jubilee of Ordination; Fr. Ashley Miranda, Fr. Allwyn Misquitta, Fr. Baptist Monteiro, Br. Jerome Mendonca, Fr. Joe Soares and Fr. James Nigrel, Silver Jubilee of Profession. Concelebrating at the Eucharist were Fr. Michael Fernandes, Provincial, and over sixty other priests. Also present for the occasion were the family members and friends of the jubilarians, and other well wishers. “A jubilee is a moment to say thanks,” said Fr. Boniface, introducing the Eucharistic celebration. In the first place, the jubilarians wished to thank God who had been faithful to them through all these years. Secondly, thanks were due to “the giants on whose shoulders we have grown” he said. And finally, it was an opportunity to say thanks to family members, friends, confreres, and the many others who have been part of their lives. Delivering the homily, Fr. Elson reflected on the “ecstasy and the agony” every priest goes through. Moments of ecstasy, such as reaching out to someone in need, reuniting a broken family or comforting a dying person, are what help the priest find meaning and joy in his life and ministry. But then, there are also moments of agony, and these are often plentiful. One’s own shortcomings, failings, frustrations and loneliness are part of the agony every priest has to face. But in all this, God remains fai
thful, and he helps the priest endure this agony. After the Eucharist a felicitation dinner was held. Raising the toast during the dinner, Fr. Provincial spoke eloquently about each of the jubilarians. He highlighted their qualities, the work they have done during these years and the contribution they have made to the province. He pointed out that two common traits he noticed in all the jubilarians were their commitment and humility. He also thanked them for the service they have rendered to thousands of poor and marginalized youngsters and wished them well as they go ahead in their Salesian and priestly lives.