St. Francis of Assisi, Patron of St. Anthony's High School, Monte de Gurim, Bardez, Goa

October 4 , 2014

Today is the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226), one of the best-loved Catholic saints, who was the founder of the Order of Friars Minor (Capuchin) and the Secular Franciscan Order. He is the Patron of the renowned institution of St. Anthony's High School, my Alma Mater, Monte de Guirim, Bardez, Goa. Our present Pope has adopted his Papal name as 'Francis' - after St. Francis of Assisi, who is known for his humility.

 Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi, Monte de Guirim.

Bardez Goa.

Main altar of the Chapel, dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi.

Twilight view of the Arabian Sea from Monte de Guirim, Bardez, Goa.

The Alverno Friary & Residence

Resting place of the great Capuchin Friars of Monte de Guirim.

Cross of peace and tranquility facing the Chapel on the Hill. Monte de Guirim. An ideal quiet place for prayer, solace, comfort and inspiration.

On the right side of this cross, as one looks at the picture above,  the giant old nunerca tree stood strong perhaps for generations. This tree was a legend in its lifetime. It was like a mother that sheltered and protected her children under her huge arms from the hot sun and rain.  For the physical training exercise, boys lined up for the “drill” under this legendary tree. In the afternoon boys some played, while other read books. Mission Sunday event was held on this mini plateau. Its own branch roots were very cleverly nurtured back into the earth with soil around it round tin pipes, thereby providing support for itself. Though botanists tried to save it, the old tree sadly did not survive. But a new one that was immediately planted in its place soon grew to its full size and provides a nostalgic reminiscence to the visiting scholars of the old days.