FR CLIFFORD FERNANDES, OFM
CAP LAID TO REST
The funeral mass of Fr Clifford Fernandes OFM Cap was held on 21st of
July at 10 am at St Fidelis Friary - Monte Mariano friary chapel, presided
over by Most Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of Mangaluru along with
Fr Alwyn Dias, the Provincial Minister of Holy Trinity Capuchin Province
Karnataka, Fr Melwyn D'Souza, the Guardian of St Anne’s Friary Mangaluru and
many priests, religious brothers and sisters and laity.
Fr Alwyn Dias Provincial Minister, in his introduction said, “Death brings
sadness to all, today Karnataka capuchin province is mourning because we
have lost a young and energetic preacher of the Word of God.”
Fr Baptist Rodrigues preached a heart touching homily. He said, "Fr Clifford
was an itinerant preacher and helped many people to come closer to Christ.
Truly, he had an experience of the love of God and he was always
enthusiastic to share that experience with the people of God. Today Fr
Clifford is enjoying the wonderful eternal rewards that Christ had promised
to him."
Fr Joel Assistant Novice master, in his eulogy beautifully narrated the life
of Fr Clifford. He described Fr Clifford as a "good shepherd" who preached
zealously and engaged himself tirelessly in the pastoral work. By his
effective and inspiring sermons he has won the hearts of people and souls to
God.
On behalf of the family members, Fr Raymond Fernandes of Karwar Diocese, the
cousin of Fr Clifford spoke a few words and mentioned that Fr Clifford
always preached and believed that we are citizens of heaven, on earth we are
pilgrims. He also expressed his gratitude towards the Provincial and all
Capuchin friars who were a part of Fr. Clifford's life journey.
Fr Paul Melwyn, the Vicar Provincial expressed his gratitude to the bishop,
priests, friars, religious sisters and the people gathered, for their
presence, and everyone who were responsible for the smooth conducting of the
funeral ceremony. He also thanked the family members of Fr Clifford for
taking care of him during his illness.
Soon after the Eucharistic celebration, with due honour, the funeral rites
were conducted by the Provicial Minister Fr Alwayn Dias and thereafter the
body was laid to rest in Capuchin cemetery at Monte Mariano Farangipet.


































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