Before giving this homily, I had a conversation with Augustine, in Konkani. He said, “Aare Ferrao, borem, borem utram mhun, hanh!” (Say some nice words, huh!).St. Francis of Assisi had said, “Preach always… and, if necessary, use words.” Surely, Augustine’s daily preaching was full of Franciscan simplicity, Mary-like humility and Pope Francis-like joy! But he also found it necessary to use special words – words which added the Silveira touch to the ministry of our dear POP – Priest of the People.
Coming to the first ‘word’: many have waited expectantly for that early morning call to hear this booming voice, “Good morning… Happy Birthday.” Simple, down-to-earth expression of love and concern. A birthday was incomplete without Fr. Augustine’s life-giving words – “Happy Birthday”!
The next important ‘word’: At a party, it was invitation enough to roar out, ‘Pop for a song!’ And he was ready with his signature song “Sorpotel”. He belted it out with such energy and gusto, that you couldn’t but join in. Without Sorpotel – the dish and the song – no Pop party was complete.
The next important ‘word’: Thivim – the village in Goa he hailed from. Once every year he organized a meaningful Eucharist and a mouth-watering spread, which obviously had his signature dish – sorpotel. This warm, towering Thivimkar will be sorely missed at the next annual celebration.
Another important ‘word’: mission. The Young Men’s Sodality inspired him to give up a lucrative Bank job to follow Christ in the Society. He was appointed to put new spirit into our mission works. His focus on ‘mission’ is best expressed in his inspirational involvement with the “Better World Movement”. Later he plunged into the pastoral field and began to “smell like his sheep.”
In his passing away POP is still on mission and will surely be celebrating with sorpotel! Viva!
Wasn’t it necessary to ‘use words’?
- Lawrie Ferrao, SJ
