Owe you a lot dear Fr. Ronnie

Owe you a lot dear Fr. Ronnie

-Bernard Fernandes

God called you early Fr. Ronnie, and to be honest, we were not prepared to hear the news of your sudden death.  Just a week back you were the life of our Salesian gathering at a birthday party of a confrere... and as I write this the songs that you sang are still playing in my mind. We are stunned, we are saddened; your lively and vivacious presence will always be missed. 

Way back in 1980-81, I was in my SSC, and you were put in charge of our group in the apostolic boarding. You goaded us, and grouped us to assist one another in study, games and other activities. I for one, will never forget the many times you did not miss an opportunity to egg me on with your gentle encouraging words. I still recollect the time you trained me, a flat footed dancer for that, for the group song, ‘Sons of the Sea’.  I do not remember a moment being punished by you, yet I can recount the many moments that you were firm with us. And yes, how can I miss out on the ‘pigling’ we won as a prize for winning the Marian Quiz contest strategically outshining our senior opponents of Std. XII (that time the PNC).  I honed my skills in hockey, basketball and football under your watchful mentoring.

Four years later, we met again, this time at Divyadaan (our institute of philosophy) in Nashik, you as our dean, and I, a student of philosophy. Here too I had much to learn from you.  Somehow you convinced me – a novice on the guitar - to conduct a choir in the parish. Ghosts of fear and trepidation conquered, I went on to blaze a trail, something that held me in good stead right through life.  

Our paths crossed again in Lonavla; I was a fresher in B.Sc., Mathematics, and you were the Vice-Rector.  I remember given the charge of the band, and you – the refined musician that you were - did not hesitate to drop by and assist at the band practices. And there was the incident when you, along with Bro. James Nigrel (now Fr. James), helped us get out of an embarrassing situation when there was no drummer – who happened to be sick in the infirmary-  for a major programme. With cymbals in hand you kept the beat backstage, while the novice drummer kept a nervous steady rhythm!  Nostalgic memories Fr. Ronnie!

We were to work together again – for the last time – in Lonavla in 1995. As a new priest, I was assigned the task of being the Vice-Principal, Prefect of Studies and Catechist, with you as the Rector of the community.  And that was indeed the time of my life. You pushed the Mathematics books (some of them prized collection of late Fr. Vincent Vaz) into my hands, and challenged me (just fresh after 4 years of theology) to teach Mathematics for Std. XII. And then began my passion for the teaching of Mathematics.  Limits, derivatives and integration, together with Linear equations and Quadratic equations, were to become my daily cup of tea! And enjoy I did! There were the outings too – to Goa, Uttan and Gorai. There were camaraderie, joy and laughter- moments when we could let our hair down. Cricket matches, nights by the sea, sing-song sessions, card games, delicious meals...remember them all.

I have lots of pleasant memories, but suffice to say that you have touched me. You have contributed to my growth in a big way. You have shown that it takes a lot of conviction and commitment to carry out the ideals of Don Bosco. When I heard of your death, I commented online that I was shattered – it was such an unexpected loss. Then there was a reassuring message from a past pupil, Carl Correa, that followed, “Bernard you take care, its not our call. He will be happy.” And about this I have no doubt!