Article concerning Jerome Mendes of London..... oHERALDo MORMUGAO JAN 19
Consul General of Portugal in Goa Dr. Pedro Adao on Thursday voiced happiness over the close harmonious co-existence between the Hindus and Catholics in the State. The Consul General of Portugal expresssed his sentiments after visiting an age-old cross at Old Mardol in Verna, which was built by the Portuguese in 1519. It is believed that the Portuguese celebrated one of their first masses at this cross. During the visit, which was organized by Jeronimo Mendes proprietor of Leonoras at Verna, the Consul General also visited the old temple at Old Mardol, which has been re-built. Later, the Portuguese official visited the centuries-old St. Anthony's chapel and agreed to offer assistance in the extending the chapel. Speaking to Herald, Mr. Mendes said he had a great wish to promote the Goan culture and heritage. ''Although there was a temple, which has moved to Ponda, the Hindus from the area have rebuilt this temple. We are delighted to have two religions co-existing in harmony at this religious site, which includes the chapel, the cross and the temple'' said Mr Mendes The temple is presently taken over the the Archeological Survey of India and they have maintained an old water tank where it is believed the Hindus used to have perform religious rituals. The tank is protected by ASI, after some people had found silver coins, other ornaments and idols in this tank, of which some have been kept in the museum in Panjim ''It is very interesting to me that almost after one year, I have discovered the two religions sharing emotions with each other at this religious site.'' Dr Adao later visited the hospital-cum-retirement home for the senior citizens, which has been built by Mr Mendes. -- Salaam ali kum. Gabe Menezes. London, England
