As the countdown to 4.00 p.m. was nearing on 5th June 2024, the jubilant mood at Guardian Angel Church was reaching its pinnacle. The Faithful were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their new Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Fredrick Monteiro.
Soon the long anticipated moment arrived. Rev. Fr Fredrick Monteiro, escorted by the Vicar Forane and parish priests of Bantwal Deanery, and parishioners of Allipade landed at Guardian Angel Church. The entourage escorted Fr Monteiro to church with the thumping music of famous Royal Brass Band of Allipade.
Rev. Fr William Menezes, the Parish Priest and Rev. Fr Gerald Pinto, Socius, welcomed Fr. Fredrick Monteiro with garlands. Mr. Paul Rodrigues, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mrs. Lolina D’Souza, Secretary of PPC; and Ms. Renita Menezes, Coordinator of 21 Pastoral Commissions welcomed the new parish priest with bouquets.
The ceremonial handing over of the charge ensued in the church, which was led by Rev. Fr Gerald Pinto. This was followed by a brief formal programme of welcome. Mr. Paul Rodrigues welcomed the gathering. Rev. Fr William Menezes, the outgoing parish priest, welcomed his successor and thanked the parishioners for their support during his six-year tenure at Angelore. Rev. Fr James D’Souza, Vicar Forane, City Deanery, wished well to both Rev. Fr William Menezes and Rev. Fr Fredrick Monteiro. Addressing the Faithful, Rev. Fr Fredrick Monteiro thanked the parishioners of Allipade and sought the cooperation of parishioners of Guardian Angel Church in his pastoral ministry.
After the formal programme, the guests proceeded for high tea.
While the former parishioners personally thanked Fr Monteiro for his pastoral service at Allipade, Angeloreans acquainted themselves with their new parish priest.
