The funeral rites of V. Rev. Fr Valerian Mendonca, Rector of Milagres Cathedral, took place at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur on 08th July, 2024.
Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese, was the main celebrant. Most Rev. Dr Henry D’Souza, Bishop of Bellary; Msgr. Ferdinand Gonsalves, Vicar General of Udupi Diocese; V. Rev. Fr Roshan D’Souza, Chancellor; V. Rev. Fr Roshan Menezes, Episcopal Vicar for Religious of Udupi Diocese; V. Rev. Fr Denis D’Sa, PRO of Udupi Diocese; Diocesan and Religious Priests of Udupi and Mangaluru Diocese were present. Most Rev. Dr Henry D’Souza preached the homily.
A condolence meet was held after the Mass. On behalf of Udupi Diocese, Rev. Fr Denis D’Sa delivered the condolence speech. In his speech, he recalled the friendly nature and leadership qualities of V. Rev. Fr Valerian, which were widely accepted by the priests and the lay people of Udupi Diocese. He also recalled V. Rev. Fr Valerian’s selfless service, his commitment, and his generosity. “His administrative skills and religious life are a role model for the community. V. Rev. Fr Valerian’s unexpected demise is a great loss to his family, Udupi Diocese, and to the entire society,” he added.
On behalf of Milagres parishioners, Mrs Evugin Rebello, Secretary of Milagres Cathedral Pastoral Council, paid tribute. On behalf of Milagres Institutions, Dr Vincent Alva, Principal of Milagres College, paid tribute. On behalf of V. Rev. Fr Valerian Mendonca’s family members, Sr. Rose Agnes, sister of V. Rev. Fr Valerian Mendonca, also paid tribute. Msgr. Ferdinand Gonsalves, Vicar General of Udupi Diocese, thanked all who were present, helped, and arranged the beautiful farewell for V. Rev. Fr Valerian Mendonca’s final journey.
