The feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception was celebrated this morning with
several masses indoor since 0500 hrs and outdoor since 0700 hrs at the Holy
Spirit Church Margao
The unique event this evening was a Value Based Magic show for school children
with nearly 100 magic items explaining various themes of the Bible beginning
with the origin of mankind etc.
The show was presented by Fr Prof Ivan Madtha who earned the sobriquet of the
"Gospel Magician" . He met a train accident four years ago and lost his
left hand and parts of three fingers > Despite this tragedy Fr Ivan converted
this suffering into joy to render service to God and he has embarked upon
using Magic shows to inculcate the Bible and gospel teachings to children. He
has a huge following ever since.
What inspires the audience as the show gets underway is that Fr Prof Ivan does
not display any resentment at his physical disability. He has lost thirty two
bones has punctures in his lungs but his strong faith in God has given him the
grit to enjoy life. He had undergone several surgical operations but his faith
in God and prayer endured him all through. This is his message to those who
think that suffering are a bane on life. He laughs and moves around freely
does his personal chores with ease and sports a smiling countenance. Truly an
inspiring personality.
Indeed the gathering was so taken up by Fr Prof Ivans spirit of determination
and faith that many felt that such a magic show could be held all over Goa to
inspire those that consider suffering as a curse.
Fr Prof Ivan is assisted by his sister who is also a nun and another youth.
The costs of the show is around Rs.7000- but the Holy Spirit Church clergy
preferred to throw the show open to all and for free but moved a donation box
for those who could contribute their mite. This was an exemplary treat for the
feast day and was well appreciated by all.
It is hoped that Fr Ivan through his sufferings will inspire others to face
life positively. He is a real example of an individual who not only professes
propagates but also practices the Christian way and values of life unstead of
rituals alone.
This writer spoke to the 46 year Fr Ivan who now resides in the Clergy home
for ailing priests in Mangalore. He has however promised to participate in
more shows in Goa especially to inspire children.
The children and even adults were amazed by his presentation and the magic show
was well received with guffaws of laughter from children in their
impressionable age,
For those interested in India and abroad to have the magic shows of Fr Prof.
Ivan Madtha who performs in Konkani (Mangalorean accent ) and English they
could contact him at Vinarey Home, Fr Mueller Hospital premises, Kankannady PO
Mangalore Karnataka 09448843065 or ivanmad...@yahoo.com. It is worth a try.
GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES,
BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA)
+91 98221 58584 (24 HRS)
gonsalvesgodfre...@yahoo.co.in
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