GLIMPSES OF LAR DE ESTUDANTES, PANJIM
Lar de Estudantes, as the name itself signifies “Home of Students”, was started as a “home away from home” for boys. It is situated at Altinho, Panjim, previously known as “Alto de Conceicao”. Lar was started as a boarding home for boys studying at the Lycieum, Medical College, etc. in an old house purchase by the Archdiocese from one Mr. Rodolfo. Later, this old house was demolished and in its place the present building was constructed by Msgr. Chico (late Msgr. Francisco Monteiro), after he was appointed as its Director.
After the liberation of Goa, students pursing Graduation and Professional Courses in the Colleges and Institutes in Panjim were given admission. Those who benefited from the hospitality of Lar, still remember with nostalgia the tireless service rendered by Lar to them especially in the person of Msgr. Chico. In reverence and gratitude, the past-pupils (Laristas) annually commemorate his birthday on 1st of February with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, followed by a programme where meritorious students are distributed scholarship prizes.
With the improvement in transport facilities in Goa, the purpose of Lar as a boarding for students did not hold much ground. Hence, the hostel was closed and Lar became a place for organizing Diocesan activities. Two Diocesan Centres, namely Diocesan Centre for Lay Apostolate and Diocesan Youth Centre have their offices at Lar. Besides the programmes organized by these two Centres, various Diocesan Programmes like Meetings, Seminars, etc are held at Lar.
In order to help out in the offices, programmes and activities at Lar, Holy Family Sisters, Sancoale, were requested to render their services. Accordingly the Archbishop of Goa and the Congregation on 14th September 1998 signed an agreement, and a community of three Sisters was established. In 2007, the agreement was revised and extended.
At present, we are a community of three sisters. Sr. Elsy Fernandes the Animator of the Community renders service at the Diocesan Centre for Lay Apostolate Sr. Lozia Fernandes renders service at the Diocesan Youth Centre and Sr. Olga Fernandes looks after the Mess. All of us take part in the general administration of the house; oversee the general maintenance and cleanliness of the house and garden; etc.
Although a community by ourselves, we form part of the larger community at Lar, namely Frs. Aleixo Menezes, Olavo Caiado, Leonardo Souza and the other stay-in working staff. Though we have our own schedule and timetable for our community life, the whole community comes together for meals, the Eucharist, sometimes for common prayers, etc.
We are happy to render our wholehearted service at Lar, in turn to the Archdiocese for the great glory of God.