During the final rites ceremony at St Lawrence Church, Agassaim, Assistant Parish Priest, Fr Bolmax Pereira said Derwin was blessed and consoled the congregation that he must be enjoying eternal bliss in heaven as a reward from the Almighty. He said that the teenager’s life was one filled with song, painting, photography and culinary skills.
Fr Pereira reminded that the teenager lived his short life to the fullest, giving his best to all who crossed his path. “We need to seek his example and be of service to others with all our talents and gifts,” he added.
“His sudden death may be our loss but undoubtedly heaven’s gain,” he concluded. Derwin died following a road accident at Bambolim.
At the conclusion of the Eucharistic celebrations, on behalf of the bereaved family, Cheryl Pereira thanked the Archbishop, priests, nuns and all those who extended their support in moments of deep grief. One of the teachers of Fr Agnel High School, where Derwin completed his primary studies, Blossom Araujo highlighted the inborn qualities of this talented teenager and said sweet memories of this incomparable boy will linger for years to come.
“More than parents, we were friends to our loving elder son,” mentioned Derwin’s mother, Fiona Gracias, “and every step he took was always with prior intimation. And now with his disappearance it appears that he has cheated us.”
“His involvement was always there, be it on stage, in church or school activities. And although we have lost a golden son with his multiple talents, we accept it as God’s will,” said his father, Xavier Gracias.
The troupe of the musical ‘The Redeemer’ of which Derwin was an active member, led the choir, while a giant screen outside the church displayed continuously the multiple talents of this gifted teenager.
