PANAJI: The Chapel of Our Lady of Merces, situated in Vaddem, Vasco da Gama, built in 1732, which is one of the oldest chapel in Mormugao, has now been renovated and extended.

The blessing of the renovated chapel has been scheduled on April 25, 2010 at 5.30 p.m. and will be done by his Excellency, Most Rev Alwyn Barreto, Bishop of Sindhudurg, followed by a solemn Eucharistic celebration. A host of clergymen including the priests who have earlier served in the Vasco parish, local politicians and other dignitaries are expected to be present for this auspicious function.
The chapel has been extended to facilitate the accommodation of the faithful for better participation in the Liturgical Acts and to preserve the aged interiors of the chapel.
Speaking on the renovation works one of the confraria members, Mr Carlos Almeida said that the major funding of this project has been done by the Confraria de N Sra das Merces. The renovation and extension work was  carried out under the guidance of renowned engineer Ernesto Moniz, he said. The construction was entrusted  to M/s Arsenio and Associates, Mapusa and the three imposing alters were restored to their pristine design by Mr Agnelo Fernandes from Margao, who is considered to be a master in restoration of old artefacts, Mr Carlos said. Utmost care was taken to preserve the original architecture and interiors of this centuries old Chapel.
The Parish Priest  of St Andrew’s Church, Fr Antonio da Costa, has congratulated the Confraria and the Fabrica Committees and has requested the parishioners to attend this memorable event in large numbers.