Envoy happy over close Hindu-Catholic ties
Gabe Menezes
oHERALDo
MORMUGAO JAN 19
Consul General of Portugal in Goa Dr. Pedro Adao on Thursday voiced
happiness over the close harmonious co-existence between the Hindus
and Catholics in the State.
The Consul General of Portugal expresssed his sentiments after
visiting an age-old cross at Old Mardol in Verna, which was built by
the Portuguese in 1519. It is believed that the Portuguese celebrated
one of their first masses at this cross.
During the visit, which was organized by Jeronimo Mendes proprietor of
Leonoras at Verna, the Consul General also visited the old temple at
Old Mardol, which has been re-built.
Later, the Portuguese official visited the centuries-old St. Anthony's
chapel and agreed to offer assistance in the extending the chapel.
Speaking to Herald, Mr. Mendes said he had a great wish to promote the
Goan culture and heritage. ''Although there was a temple, which has
moved to Ponda, the Hindus from the area have rebuilt this temple. We
are delighted to have two religions co-existing in harmony at this
religious site, which includes the chapel, the cross and the temple''
said Mr Mendes
The temple is presently taken over the the Archeological Survey of
India and they have maintained an old water tank where it is believed
the Hindus used to have perform religious rituals.
The tank is protected by ASI, after some people had found silver
coins, other ornaments and idols in this tank, of which some have been
kept in the museum in Panjim
''It is very interesting to me that almost after one year, I have
discovered the two religions sharing emotions with each other at this
religious site.''
Dr Adao later visited the hospital-cum-retirement home for the senior
citizens, which has been built by Mr Mendes.
--
Salaam ali kum.
Gabe Menezes.
London, England