Margao, July 26, 2025 — The Loyola Ex-Students Association (LESA) of Loyola High School, Margao, proudly marked a major milestone as it celebrated its Silver Jubilee on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the school campus.
The evening commenced with a Thanksgiving Mass at 6:00 PM in the school chapel. The Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. Pedro Rodrigues, SJ, Provincial of the Goa Jesuit Province, and the homily was preached by Fr. Jimmy Mendes, SJ, Province Coordinator, who offered profound reflections on Ignatian values and their continued relevance in today’s world.
Following the Mass, guests moved to the school hall for a formal program. Dr. Lenny D’Costa, LESA President (2023–2025), welcomed the gathering with a speech tracing LESA’s 25-year journey, highlighting key achievements under the leadership of each past president.
A special highlight of the evening was the inauguration of the JAAG website by Fr. Pedro Rodrigues, SJ. The newly launched site will serve as the central platform for updates and registrations for the upcoming JAAI National Congress, which will be hosted in Goa. LESA will co-host this prestigious event alongside the alumni associations of St. Britto’s and St. Paul’s.
Mr. Armindo Gonsalves, LESA Secretary, presented a comprehensive report on the association’s recent activities, highlighting impactful initiatives such as an osteoporosis camp, a vision screening camp for primary school students, and several community outreach programs. He also invited all attendees to participate in a blood donation camp to be held on July 31, the Feast of St. Ignatius, in association with the South Goa District Hospital, under the JAAI initiative.
The felicitation ceremony was a moving segment of the program, and included:
Outstanding SSC students were recognized with certificates and mementos, encouraging current students to aim for excellence.
Retired Teachers: were honored with shawls and mementos, as alumni expressed deep appreciation for their unwavering dedication and mentorship.
Fr. William Rodrigues, SJ, outgoing Province Coordinator, was specially felicitated by Dr. Lenny D’Costa and Mr. Armindo Gonsalves for his unwavering support and guidance to LESA over the years.
JAAI National Secretary also felicitated key contributors to JAAI activities, including Dr. Lenny D’Costa, Mr. Armindo Gonsalves, Mr. Raul Vas, and others for their exceptional commitment.
In a gesture of gratitude, the outgoing LESA managing committee presented the school with top-of-the-line E-Learning Kits, which were gratefully received by the Principal and Vice Principal.
A significant moment was the formal installation of the new LESA Committee for 2025–2027, with Mr. Trevor Coutinho assuming the role of President. The new committee was officially sworn in by Fr. Jimmy Mendes, SJ, heralding the beginning of a new chapter in LESA’s legacy.
The jubilant celebrations concluded with a lively dinner and dance, featuring spirited performances by the popular band Breakthrough, leaving all attendees with cherished memories of the evening. The entire event was expertly hosted by Jerry D’Souza, adding warmth and humor throughout the program.
