Rev. Fr. Paul D’Souza’s nonagenarian Birthday Festivities
Carmelite Monastery, Margao, Goa
September 28, 2023, is a landmark in the life of Rev. Fr Paul D’Souza as he completed 90* years of life. 20 years back Carmelite Monastery in Margao had the privilege of celebrating 90 Years of Fr. Anthony D’Silva who was the novice mate of Fr. Paul. The day began as the community gathered in the choir for morning praise with Fr. Paul lighting the Candle marking the 90 years of life that has been always filled with Christ’s light. The concelebrated Eucharist immediately at 6.15 a.m. was joined by several hidden fans of the celebrant. Our span is 70 but 80 for those who are strong, says the Psalmist. We added our inspiration 'Mighty go 80 and they become majestic at 90'!

The postulants were brimming with joy and excitement to wish Fr. Paul with a cultural bonanza. At 11.30 the band rhymed and in the mini hall, the community and members of region communities with some close relatives of the star of the day and some OCDS representatives gathered for a short and fantastic wishing programme. Fr. Diogo Proenca wished in the name of all present stated Fr. Paul was prayerful, philosopher, professor, poet, available, unassuming, unpretentious, loving, and longing for God…………. Almost all have been his students in the province and his hidden hand is always there when anybody does doctoral research, scientific papers... a walking encyclopedia. Ad Multos Annos and We Await 100* Poetic reflections of daily Mass readings by Fr. Paul was released titled “Lyrical Messages”. “All beautiful in it is the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and the rest not tasty my perspiration” he humbly mumbled. The Postulants sang, danced, played, and finally made everybody shake their body and join in. Everybody was in awe of their performance. Bravo, some whispered. awesome said others … mind-blowing – some noted. It was a great manifestation of “Ecce quam bonum et quam jucundum habitare fratres in unum”! Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell in unity. Monastic Lunch followed to enhance this fraternity. Three cheers to Fr. Paul! May you be with us to hit the century!