Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Honors Fr. Umberto Barato and Sr. Antonia John, SJA
23rd September 2007
His Beatitude Michel Sabbah, Latin Patriarche of Jerusalem with His Excellency Monsignor Aloysius Paul D’ Sousa, Bishop of Mangalore India well-honored Rev. Fr. Umberto Barato OFM Parish Priest of the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Nicosia and Sr. Antonia John SJA in a holy mass for their sixty years of religious practice as a faithful servant of God last Sunday Sept.16 held at the church from 9:30 until 10:30 am.
The mass was well attended by the parishioners including The High Commisioner of India Hon. Lavanya Prasad with her husband Mr. N. H. Prasad, Ambassador of Italy to Cyprus His Excellency Luigi Napolitano with his wife Mrs. Loredana Napolitano, Sisters from all Congregation in Cyprus and Priests from their respective parishes.
Sister Antonia said,” On my 60th anniversary of my religious profession, i felt as though i was making first profession. I was ready to give myself again to the Lord whole-heartedly for the rest of my life.” My religious life has been a life of gratitutude, joy, peace and contentment, she added. I have not regretted one moment for having given myself to God to serve in this Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Apparition founded by St. Emlie de Vialar.
After the mass a luncheon party followed at the friary garden which was well-enjoyed by everybody who attended the celebration.