In a message dated 04/30/2002 8:26:16 AM EST, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: << The intention behind the service is to remember and pray for the dead ancestors (also masses are offered for the souls of the dead ancestors, close relatives of the family and even the old deceased faithful servant of the family) on this important occasion of their house, through the medium of these beggars representing them, the needy >>
Dear Fr. Nascimento: Your recordation of such historical facts is truly a tribute and honour to our Proud Goan Heritage :-) We have vivid memories of a similar ceremony in Karachi, on the actual Wedding Day, when the married Goan couple would go outside with a bottle of fine Scotch Whiskey or other liquor. The bottle would then be broken in the compound, as I understood, to appease the souls of their beloved dead. We too followed it. Your labour of love in documenting these customs definitely helps develop a keen awareness, especially among some who have lost touch with reality, of these rich and noble traditions. Our colourful heritage is fraught with rich and noble sentiments! I couldn't but shudder when a local priest in our parish dared preach from the pulpit about the antiquity of feeding the beggars. He expressed doubts if anyone these days would condescend to such customs. Ah, the difference between East and West :( Back in Karachi, Thursdays (Juma-raat), or the night before Friday, beggars would converge around shops and homes. And yes, many of them were treated by honest locals to similar bikareanchem jevonn :-) Many thanks, Fr. Nascimento, for these inspirational postings. We will pray for your good health. Blessings. Clare & Pat de Sousa Maryland, USA =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-W-E-B---S-I-T-E-=-=-= To Subscribe/Unsubscribe from GoaNet | http://www.goacom.com/goanet =================================================================== For (un)subscribing or for help, Contact: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Dont want so many e=mails? Join GoaNet-Digest instead ! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Help support non-commercial projects in Goa by advertizing!! * * * * Your ad here !!
