Diamond Jubilee of Birthday Celebration of Fr. Jossey Rodrigues, OCD
The Carmelites of Udupi Farm House joyfully celebrated the Diamond Birthday of Rev. Fr. Jossey Rodrigues, OCD on Saturday, 28th June 2025 at their premises. The event was marked with deep spiritual significance and heartfelt appreciation for the life and contributions of Fr. Jossey. The celebration began with a Thanksgiving Eucharist presided over by Fr. Jossey Rodrigues himself, joined by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D'Souza, OCD, the Provincial Superior, and Rev. Fr. Charles Serrao, Pontifical Commissary of the Rosarians. Around 30 priests from the region concelebrated the Mass, adding solemnity to the occasion.Fr. Silvestre D'Souza delivered a spiritually enriching homily, centered on the lives and missionary zeal of Saints Peter and Paul, drawing parallels to Fr. Jossey’s own journey of faith, service, and dedication. Mr. Revon Dias, a talented neighboring musician, led the choir, lifting the congregation into melodious worship. Following the Eucharistic celebration, the community hosted a short cultural program to mark the event. The event was compered by Fr. Archibald Gonsalves, the Vicar Provincial, who guided the flow of events with grace and wit. Fr. Charles Serrao proposed a heartfelt toast, highlighting three remarkable qualities of Fr. Jossey: His unwavering commitment to religious life. His deep commitment to confessional ministry and his enduring humility and fraternity. Fr. Alwyn Sequeira, the priest in charge, warmly welcomed the gathering. Fr. Jossey’s classmates; Fr. Joe Tauro, Fr. Peter D'Sa, and Fr. Lawrence D'Mello, shared fond memories and humorous anecdotes from their formation years, celebrating the richness of their lifelong fraternity. A sumptuous meal was lovingly prepared and hosted by Fr. John Sequeira in honor of Fr. Jossey, preceded with a prayer of grace led by Fr. Joe Tauro. The meal was a moment of joy and community bonding. On behalf of the KG Province, Fr. Silvestre D'Souza felicitated Fr. Jossey, adorning him with a traditional Mysore peta, shawl, and garland, symbolizing honor, respect, and gratitude. Several priests from neighboring communities joined in expressing their greetings and appreciation for Fr. Jossey's life of dedication and service.Fr. Jossey, visibly moved, concluded the celebration with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing his deep gratitude to all who made the event a memorable and spiritual celebration of his life and vocation.