“Though Fr Roque and Fr Pradeep leave Valencia Parish, their spiritual presence will always remain among us. Every farewell marks a new beginning in God’s divine plan. The bond between a priest and his parishioners can never be broken by distance. As one chapter closes, another blessed journey begins.”
Going back to 27 July 2020, it was a joyful moment for the parishioners of Valencia Parish as Rev. Fr Roque DSa took charge as the new Parish Priest, after rendering dedicated and fruitful service as a Psychology Professor at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu Mangalore. He continued his selfless and inspiring ministry throughout his tenure at Valencia Parish as well.
Today, after 5 years and 10 months of selfless service, the time has once again arrived for Fr Roque to bid farewell to Valencia Church as he takes up his new assignment as the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Gantalkatte Moodabidri.
After taking charge on 6 May 2024 for a two-year term as the Assistant Parish Priest, Fr Pradeep Rodrigues is now bidding goodbye to Valencia Church. He will be taking charge as the new Assistant Estate Manager of the Mangalore Diocese at the Bishop’s House. He will reside at Rosario Cathedral Mangalore, where he will continue his pastoral service.
On 24 May 2026, a Thanksgiving Holy Mass was celebrated at 8:00 AM by Rev. Fr Roque DSa, expressing gratitude to God for the blessings and beautiful journey shared with the parish community. Assistant Parish Priest Fr Pradeep Rodrigues was the co-celebrant for the Eucharistic celebration.
After the thanksgiving Mass, a small felicitation and farewell programme was organised by the Parish Pastoral Council and all the organisations of the parish.
Parish Pastoral Council Vice President Ronald Rodrigues, presented a brief overview highlighting the spiritual and overall developmental progress that took place under the leadership of Fr Roque during his tenure and also, welcomed the gathering. Secretary Leeda Aquinas read the citation which was presented to Fr Roque. The 21 Commissions Coordinator, Julian DSouza proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the occasion. Dolphy Saldanha compered the programme.
As a token of love and appreciation for Fr Roque, Louis Pinto and Anil Lobo honoured him with a shawl. The memento was presented by Fr Pradeep Rodrigues, while the citation and bouquet were presented by Ronald Rodrigues, Leeda Aquinas and Julian DSouza.
As a token of love for Fr Pradeep, a shawl, memento and bouquet were presented by Ronald Rodrigues and Leeda Aquinas.
Following the ceremony, the office bearers and members of the various pious associations came forward to honour the beloved priests with love and gratitude.
People were eagerly waiting to hear Fr Roque speak and, in his speech, he started with small incident that had happened years ago, it me reminded of a beautiful memory from my seminary days. When we were seminarians, we were sent to different parishes across the diocese for mission work. I was sent to Surathkal Parish, where I taught hymns and catechism. I was also given responsibility for the altar servers. They were quite naughty, so I was often strict with them and would sometimes raise my voice.
At the end of the mission, the altar servers gave me a farewell. And as soon as it ended, they burst crackers in celebration perhaps because the strict brother was finally leaving. (Just to bring a little laughter among you all.)
Today, standing before you, my heart is filled with gratitude. First and foremost, I sincerely thank the organising committee for arranging this beautiful farewell programme. This is the first time I truly feel the depth and joy of being a pries and I am deeply touched by the love and affection each one of you has shown me.
Six years ago, I came to this parish as your Parish Priest during the difficult time of the Corona pandemic. Yet, by God’s grace, He kept all of us safe and protected. For this blessing, I thank God wholeheartedly.
When I arrived here, David Pais was the Vice-President and Rita Menezes was the Secretary. They supported me wholeheartedly and worked tirelessly for the parish. Later, Ronald Rodrigues took over as Vice-President, along with Rita Menezes once again as Secretary and now Leeda Aquinas. I am grateful to all of them for their dedication and sincere service to the Church.
A special word about Ronald Rodrigues he seems to have two homes: one is his own house and the other is God’s House, our Church. Many among you have witnessed his hard work and commitment.
Over these six years, the Finance Committee, Parish Pastoral Council members, office bearers and members of the various pious associations have worked with me like true apostles for the growth and betterment of the parish. I remain deeply grateful for your cooperation, love and respect. I also extend my gratitude to the 2 priestly religious houses and the 12 convents in the parish. Your support and prayers have meant so much to me. Our kindergarten school staff have served tirelessly, nurturing young minds with dedication and care. I thank them sincerely. To our church office staff Judy Lasrado and Benita Pais, Manager Vally, Cook Robert, the sacristan and all the maintenance staff thank you for your selfless service and teamwork throughout these years. I also gratefully acknowledge the generosity of our donors and all those who have helped the parish in countless ways during different occasions. Your kindness has greatly contributed to the development of the Church.
I would also like to thank all the Assistant Parish Priests who journeyed with me at Valencia Fr Joswin DSouza, Fr Lancy DSouza, Fr Vijay Monteiro and Fr. Pradeep Rodrigues. Thank you for your friendship, support and companionship.
Dear parishioners, whatever development has taken place in this parish was never the work of one person alone. It happened because of God’s blessings and your love, cooperation, generosity and faith. If at any moment, through my words or actions, I may have hurt anyone, knowingly or unknowingly, I humbly ask for your forgiveness.
This parish and each one of you will always remain close to my heart. I will forever be grateful for the immense love and affection you showered upon me. Please continue to keep me in your prayers, just as you will always remain in mine. There are many more names I should mention and thank personally, but this is an overwhelming and emotional moment for me. Still, my gratitude to all of you comes from the depths of my heart.
Before I conclude, I once again thank every parishioner gathered here today. May our Patron Saint intercede for each one of you and may God bless you abundantly. THANK YOU
During the occasion, Fr Pradeep Rodrigues expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the parishioners for the love, care and support they had shown him over the past two years. He was especially thankful to Fr Roque DSa for being a supportive and caring Parish Priest. Fr Pradeep acknowledged him for his constant guidance, encouragement and fatherly love. He emotionally recalled the special care Fr Roque took of him during his illness and hospitalisation, saying that such concern and support were beyond measure. He also extended his sincere thanks to the church office staff, the cook, sacristan and manager for their dedicated service and cooperation. Fr Pradeep further thanked the Vice-President, Secretary, 21 Commission Coordinator, Parish Pastoral Council members and Finance Committee members both past and present for their valuable support and teamwork. He expressed his appreciation to all the office bearers and members of the various pious associations for working hand in hand and strengthening the parish community through their commitment and service.
Concluding his speech, Fr Pradeep thanked all the parishioners for their kindness and love and humbly requested them to continue remembering him in their prayers.
The emotional farewell was witnessed by a sea of parishioners. Vice President Ronald Rodrigues, Secretary Leeda Aquinas, 21 Commissions Coordinator Julian DSouza, Finance Committee representatives Louis J. Pinto and Anil Lobo, honorary member of the Parish Council and MLC of the Government of Karnataka, Ivan DSouza, were present on the occasion.
As I conclude this column, I would like to share my heartfelt thoughts.
In the life of a priest, transfers are a part of their mission, yet the love, memories and bonds shared with parishioners remain forever. Rev. Fr Roque Victor DSa and Rev. Fr Pradeep Rodrigues touched countless hearts through their kindness, simplicity and caring nature. Their presence, guidance and concern for every parishioner reflected the deep love they carried for Valencia Parish.
Fr Roque, through his humility, cheerful spirit and compassionate leadership, became a beloved shepherd to his flock. Fr Pradeep, with his gentle nature, dedication, and closeness to the people, won the affection of everyone he met. Together, they nurtured the parish with faith, unity and love, leaving behind beautiful memories that will always be cherished.
Humble and down to earth, both priests served selflessly and wholeheartedly, inspiring the faithful through their words and actions. As they now move forward in their priestly mission, they bid farewell to the flock they lovingly served, to shepherd new communities entrusted to their care.
Though you leave Valencia Parish,
Your memories will remain forever in our hearts.
Thank you for your love, prayers, guidance and dedicated service.
May God bless you abundantly in your new mission and ministry.
Goodbye and God bless,
Rev. Fr Roque Victor DSa and Rev. Fr Pradeep Rodrigues.
By Gordon DAlmeida
Pics by Stanly Bantwal
