Farewell sentiments

(This is the farewell speech given by Novice Lumnesh Swaroop on 9th April, as the MSJ Community gave a warm send-0ff to Fr Manoj D'Souza)

"GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS ARE BORN OF SMALL BEGINNINGS"

Today is a special day for us as we felicitate and thank Fr. Manoj for his splendid service to this community as the Socius to the Novice Director. Determination, hard work, committed service, creativity and imaginative approach to life situations has enabled Fr Manoj to achieve success in life. We thank God for his marvelous gift to us. One can draw strength and inspiration from him. He endures trouble with fortitude; no event is negative for a positive thinker. He is always available to render his ministry to anyone who approaches him. He has a good rapport with the novices. His smile drew every child close to him during our summer camps. He conquers the hearts of the poor through his simplicity; he is a great intellect but down to earth with utmost humility.

“Knowledge is the food of the soul”. He is well informed in computers, commerce, theology etc; he is an inspiring teacher always sowing the seeds of reflection, self interest and self excavation of knowledge; he is a melodious singer - his singing throbs every ear and every heart. He has shared his talents of music, singing, teaching, computers, basketball etc with us all for which we owe a great debt of gratitude. He has served our community for two and a half years here and has blossomed like a wonderful flower at Mount St. Joseph.
He is very compassionate to the sick, and the poor. His spirituality is blend with work. It is true that “Being” is very important than “Preaching”. His presence and life style speaks louder than words. He has the skill to melt the hardest metal and help it flow. His dealings with the novices are a blend of compassion and rectitude. He was a novice-friendly Socius. The way he spoke and partook in our joys and sorrows is praise worthy. His gentle corrections and firm reflections made us feel sorry for our mistakes and rectify it.
Fr Manoj, some things that we remember and cherish among the many contributions that you have made to this community are: Introducing the blog, creative ideas for community prayers, taught singing, water therapy, handwriting and tiffin box system for the sick.
Our hearts explode, explore and express impressionable thoughts about you. I feel your heart overflows with joy as you have accomplished your role as a Jesuit Priest. We pray that all your endeavors may be blessed and guided by the Lord and wish you all success. All the very best to you dear Fr Manoj.