“Be God’s instruments
of peace and love in today’s troubled world”
urged Msgr. Raul Gonsalves, Archbishop-Patriarch Emeritus, on the occasion of
the Goa Xavier College Alumni International Reunion on December 17, 2006, on
Dr. Mariano Saldanha Lawns of St. Xavier’s College.
Msgr. Gonsalves called upon the alumni/ae to be true witnesses of the human
values. He pleaded with them to show concern for the marginalized, less fortunate
and the needy which will help in long way to build a new and just society.
Around 120 alumni/ae from USA, UK, Australia, Portugal, Spain and Gulf and another
200 from India attended this 5th reunion which was organized in association
with BMX which includes alumni/ae of St. Britto High School, St. Mary’s
High School and St. Xavier’s College and Higher Secondary School. It was
home coming to the alumni/ae specially to those spread across the globe. The
Reunion, as promised did provide an intoxicating dose of Nostalgia to all who
had gathered.
Speaking at this inaugural function, Principal Newman Fernandes highlighted
the achievements of the College and commended the efforts of former Principals,
Fr. Edward Cruz, Fr. Nicolau Pereira and Fr. Antimo Gomes and the successive
Patrons of the College, Msgr. Francisco da Piedade Rebelo, Msgr. Raul Gonsalves
and Msgr. Filipe Neri Ferrao, who had given unflinching support to the College,
without any interference, wherein lies the secret of Xavierian success.
Prof. Fernandes appealed to the alumni/ae to help the College in its efforts
towards networking with higher education institution across the globe. He disclosed
that the permanent memorial of this International Reunion would be the 1500
capacity, Fr. Nicolau Pereira Auditorium – a gift from the alumni/ae and
friends of Xavier’s.
Mrs. Maria Emilia Menezes, President of Goa Xavier College Alumni/ae Association
reminisced about her experiences and hoped the Reunion would rekindle old bonds
and ties.
Mr. Eric Menezes, President of BMX – Goa, stressed the need to establish
networking among the alumni/ae who are spread all over the world. He concluded
his speech with the BMX slogan Mog Asum di which indeed highlighted the spirit
of this Reunion.
The Chief Guest for the function, Mr. Joe Nunes, President of BMX – Toronto,
stated that he was emotionally overpowered by Nostalgia as he stepped up into
the Xavier’s Campus and said he was proud and honoured to be a part of
this International Reunion. He asked all the alumni/ae to help St. Xavier’s
and announced his gift for the College projects.
Teachers of St. Britto, St. Mary’s and St. Xavier’s who retired
after serving these institutions for 25 or more years of service were felicitated
at the hands of their former pupils. A special Souvenir entitled “Reminisce”
which means to remember with pleasure was released on this occasion by Msgr.
Gonsalves.
One minute silence was observed in honour of the deceased Xavierites and prayers
were also offered during the Mass held before the Programme.
The programme ended with a cultural program with lunch hosted by College and
a nostalgic Campus Walk. The function was compered by Miss Renita Ferreira (S.Y.B.Sc)