Pics: Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal
Bantwal, Mar 26: Fr Patrick Rodrigues, director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), who passed away on March 23, was laid to rest at Infant Jesus Church, Modankap here on Sunday March 26 amid a large number of mourners including friends, family and well-wishers.
Archbishop of Bengaluru Dr Bernard Moras, in his message during the Mass, said, "Fr Patrick Rodrigues was an excellent human being who walked in the path of Jesus Christ and provided the best in healthcare service for the people."
Drawing parallels between Fr Patrick Rodrigues' life and the teachings in the Bible, the Archbishop said that Fr Patrick set an example for all.
Mangaluru bishop Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, who is also the head of the governing body of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, led the holy Mass.
Kalaburagi bishop Dr Robert Miranda, who was close to Fr Patrick, paid homage to the departed soul. He recalled the work and services Fr Patrick had rendered during his stints at St John Medical College and during the 10 years of his tenure as director of FMCI. "Though he was suffering from illness for the past two years, he rendered excellent service to the Institution and to the society," Dr Miranda said.
Udupi bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, former bishop of Mumbai Patrick Percival Fernandes (retired) vicar general of Mangaluru diocese Msgr Denis Moras Prabhu, FMCI administrator Fr Richard Coelho, Father Muller Medical College administrator Fr Ravi Rudolf D'Sa, Father Muller Thumbay administrator Fr Roshan Crasta and many other priests and nuns were present, along with MLA J R Lobo, MLC Ivan D'Souza and others.
Officials, staff and students of Father Muller Institutions and scores of well-wishers bid a tearful adieu to Fr Patrick Rodrigues.
Between 1 pm and 3.30 pm, the mortal remains were kept for public viewing at Modankap where thousands of people paid their last respects.