All Souls Day at Bela Church

Our Lady of Dolours Church, Bela, observed All Souls’ Day on Saturday, 1st November 2024, with a heartfelt celebration dedicated to remembering and praying for departed souls. There were two mass, The first mass at 6.45 am celebrated by Fr Rocky Fernandes and second mass at 7.30 am was celebrated by Fr Stany Pereira, with Fr Rocky Fernandes as the concelebrant.

After the Mass, the parishioners participated in a solemn procession to the cemetery, led by Fr Stany Pereira and Fr Rocky Fernandes. The faithful walked in silence, accompanied by prayers and hymns from the church choir, creating a contemplative atmosphere of reverence and remembrance.

A short ceremony was held at the cemetery entrance to inaugurate the upgraded pathway renovated with interlocks. Fr Stany Pereira, Fr Rocky Fernandes, Mr Cyril Crasta, and Mrs Cicilia D Souza led the inauguration by cutting the ribbon.

Upon arrival at the cemetery, Fr Stany Pereira led the prayer service. Together, all offered prayers for the souls of the departed, emphasizing hope in God’s mercy and the assurance of eternal rest. The priests then blessed each grave, symbolizing the Church’s ongoing care and prayers for the deceased. The choir enhanced the solemnity with hymns that echoed throughout the cemetery, creating an atmosphere of prayer and peace.