Panjim, Goa: Francis Pareira has been playing the role of Jesus in a three-hour-long Marathi play for 20 years. It was Augustine Pimenta, a teacher who directed the play, back in 1972. The initial motive was to create a wave of god’s knowledge among the locals. The play was earlier staged in Vasai at multiple locations. The play is majorly held by the Bombay Archdiocese and the Diocese of Ahmedabad.
He testifies if miraculous healings and histories of avoided accidents since he started to do the role. “Three times I was saved from illness, and survived accidents with no hurts while most co-passengers were badly injured,” the railway employee in Mumbai told Matters India. ”My wife reminded me it was indeed God’s special protection over us,” he added. “Pimenta had heard me reading at Masses in our church and he approached me. I declined at first because I knew that it would take away much time from my family. But he was adamant that I take up this role. At last, I consented. And now I am happy to do it,” he said.
Pareira describes his practice sessions as long and strenuous. It is impossible to hold the rehearsals in his absence. Hence, it is important for him to take time out of family and office to stay back for long practice sessions. He adds that, though it is hectic at times, he is able to manage things because of the support his family renders. “During the drama, I need to change the costume several times. My wife keeps it ready and helps me change quickly. She also remembers to give me water whenever I have short breaks thus keeping me fresh.”
Pereira recalls moments he felt God’s action in his life. “Once I fell from the train and remained in between the platform and the running train. By God’s grace I came out unhurt though shocked,” he explained. Another “miraculous escape” was on a bus. A person exchanged his seat with him. When the bus met with an accident Pereira and family came out unhurt, while all the others were deeply bruised and one lost life.
These were mere few instances out of many such happenings that made him feel the presence of God’s special providence in his life.
