Achi news desk-
The members of the Bundel community said goodbye to the assistant priest of the community Rev. Lancey D’Souza
Mangalore: The parishioners of St. Lawrence Church, Bundel, held a farewell program in honor of Asst. Parish Priest Rev. Lancey D’Souza on Sunday, May 5, 2024. 
The 7:00 a.m. Mass was celebrated by Rev. Lancey D’Souza Est, Rev. Andrew Leo D’Souza, Rev. Leo Vigas and Rev. Robert Pinto were celebrants.
After the 7 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 5, parishioners and members of the Parish Pastoral Council gathered for an official farewell ceremony. On May 14, Mr. Lancey D’Souza will assume the position of Assistant Parish Priest in Bantuval.
Dr. Peter Gonsalves, Principal St. Lawrence Middle English welcomed the gathering. On behalf of the parishioners, Dr. Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest, read the citation “Man Peter” in recognition of the services rendered by Mr. Lancey D’Souza for two years.
R. Lancey D’Souza said goodbye by honoring him with a scarf from R. Andrew, “Man Peter” from R. Peter, flowers from the vice president, a souvenir from the secretary along with the best wishes of Rabbi Leticia PDDM.
Dr. Peter Gonsalves, Capt. Letitia Senior PDDM, Mr. John D’Silva Vice President, Mr. Santosh Miskith, Secretary of the Pastoral Council of the community were present on the stage.
In parting, Mr. Andrew Leo D’Souza expressed his heartfelt thanks for the precious moments shared with Mr. Lancey and the bonds that were formed. He bestowed blessings on a journey full of growth, wisdom and divine guidance. Per Lancey’s influence was profound, touching the hearts of all, especially the youth and the less fortunate. He exemplified the virtues of compassion, guidance and mentorship, nurturing people to flourish and thrive under his watch.
The principal, Fr. Peter Gonsalves, acknowledged in a message his heartfelt thanks to Father Lancey for his dedicated service to Bundel Parish. He expressed his appreciation for the contribution of Ed Lancey and wished him good luck and prosperity in all his future endeavors
During the event, Mr. Lancey expressed his gratitude to Fr. Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest, and Peter Gonsalves, the administrator, for their support during his stay in Bundel. He then addressed the congregation, speaking from his heart about the significant moments and connections he experienced at Bundel Church. At the end, he sincerely thanked everyone, and promised to remember every member of the community in his prayers. Despite his emotions, Mr. Lancey appeared calm and composed, and urged the congregation to keep him in their prayers as well.
Coordinators from all the associations, the convenors of the parish committees came to say goodbye to Father Lancey, each of them offering a flower as a symbol of gratitude and appreciation for his service and leadership.
It was a touching sight as all the parishioners gathered together to express their heartfelt wishes to Peter Lancy. Their collective presence and well wishes spoke volumes for the impact he had on their lives and the deep sense of community within the community.
Photography and reporting: Meena Serrao Barboza
