VV 16 Aug-Sept (B) - WordPress.com · testament to her most remarkable life Pope John Paul II permitted the opening of her cause of canonization and declared a Saint on 4th September

Our Parish Vision:WITNESSING CHRIST TOWARDS TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY

Bulletin of Sacred Heart Parish, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. Vol. XXXVI - No.- 3, August -September 2016

Editorial...........

For Private Circulation Only

MARY: A CHALLENGE FOR ALL WOMENwhom bloomed the precious lily of the valley. Through her birth the nature inherited from our first parents is changed.” Her birth has been described as the hope of the entire world and the dawn of salvation.

The Blessed Virgin Mary remains the model for all woman at all times since the reality which she exemplifies is all inclusive and transcends time and cultures. Mary is the perfect human being; in her women of all ages can see what it means to be a woman in communion with Christ. After the example of Mary's virtuous life we have saintly personalities of Blessed Alphonsa and St Teresa of Kolkatta.

St. Alphonsa is generally described in fairly passive terms, as having suffered quietly. St. Alphonsa's life was focussed on

two themes: her suffering in silence through intense pain, and her love for and goodness to children. She will be canonized on 12th October in Rome. She is a sign of the deep roots and the maturation of the Christian faith in India.

Mother Teresa, now St Teresa left a testament of unshakable faith, invincible hope and extraordinary charity. Her response to Jesus' plea, “come be my

- Sr SHARMILA FERNANDES

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them”

(Genesis 1:27).

God's saving plan which is revealed in creation, attributes equal dignity and worth to women, and it also affirms the uniqueness of the gift of feminity. The Catholic tradition upholds the unique nature of the motherhood of a woman in and through the person of Mary. In particular the feast of the nativity of Mary which is celebrated on the 8th of September is an indicator of a woman's unique role in salvation history.

Mary who is prepared by divine providence to be the Mother of Jesus the Son of God, is conceived in the womb of her mother Anna, without the stain of sin and her birth is considered by the church as a solemn event.

St Augustine connects Mary's birth with Jesus' saving work. He tells the earth to rejoice and shine forth in the light of her birth. “She is the flower of the field from

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light,” made her a missionary of Charity, a “mother to the poor,” a symbol of compassion to the world, and a living witness to the thirsting love of God. As a testament to her most remarkable life Pope John Paul II permitted the opening of her cause of canonization and declared a Saint on 4th September 2016 by Pope Francis.

It is not only the Church that admires their saintliness, noble virtues, depth of dedication and selfless service but the whole world considers them as a symbol of Christ's presence into the world, thus becoming a shining beacon, showing us the true path of living. Today the Church needs more and more such saints.

Both these women modelled themselves on Mary. They become for us the Mary of modern times. Thus the figure of Mary reminds women today of the value of motherhood. In Mary we have been given to understand the true meaning of motherhood, which attains its loftiest dimension in the plan of salvation.

In the life of Blessed Alphonsa and St Teresa we can truly see the words of Mary coming true, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour for he has looked with favour on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed...” (Luke 1:46-47). The challenge for us is to follow Mary in saying an unretractable yes to God.

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VASHI VISION Parish Bulletin of Sacred Heart Church

Vashi, Navi Mumbai

EDITORIAL TEAM Fr. Gerald Fernandes, George Thomas, Dr Maureen Lobo,

Kimberly Rowe, Rita Pinto, Peter Quadros

DESIGN & LAYOUTFelix Rodrigues

SEND ARTICLES FOR VASHI VISION TO [email protected]

PUBLISHED BYParish Priest,Sacred Heart Church, Plot No. 67, Sector - 9A, Vashi,Navi Mumbai - 400 703. Tel.: 2765 0343 - 1392Church email: [email protected]

FB Page: www.facebook.com/sacredheartchurch.vashi

PRINTED ATRyan Enterprises704 AB, Ram Laxman Tower,Near Mafco Market, Sector-18,Vashi, Navi Mumbai - 400705

Web-page: www.sacredheartchurchvashi.wordpress.com

MARY: A CHALLENGE...

VASHI VISION - Sacred Heart Church, Vashi 2 August - September 2016

Baptism - Born in Christ

Marriage - United in Christ

Burial - Resting in Christ

21-05-2016 - Ashton D’Souza -child of- Glen & Jacintha

No Marriage Registered in the Preceding 2 months

1) 16-05-2016 - Joseph G Shelke - age 66 years- Sector 8, Vashi2) 20-06-2016 - Pamela W Shaw - age 66 years- Pawne, Vashi3) 17-07-2016 - Irene Sequeira - age 80 years- Sector 6, Vashi4) 27-07-2016 - Irene Moorthy - age 79 years- Sector 1, Vashi5) 08-08-2016 - Lourdnathan Joseph - age 63 years- Sector 6, Vashi6) 21-08-2016 - Aelred Mampilli - age 93 years- Sector 41, Vashi 3

We are publishing the photograph of our dear Parishioners who are res t ing wi th Chr is t in the preceding/current month.

In case of death of our parishioner the family may handover the photo of the departed family member along with the name, age & sector to the Vashi Vision Team or in the Parish Office, in case they desire so. (deadline announced in Church Notices)

A LIFE THAT MATTERSReady or not, some day it will all come to an end. There will be no more sunrises or sunsets, no

minutes, hours or day. All the things you collected, whether treasured or

forgotten, will pass to someone else.Your wealth, fame and temporal power will shrivel

to irrelevance. It will not matter what you owned or what you were

owed. Your grudges, resentments, frustrations and

jealousies will finally disappear. So too, your hopes, ambitions, plans and to-do lists

will expire. It won't matter whether you were beautiful or

brilliant. Even your gender and skin color will be irrelevant.

So what will matter?What will matter is not what you bought, but what

you built, not what you got, but what you gave.What will matter is not what you learnt, but what you taught.

What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or sacrifice that enriched, empowered or encouraged others to emulate your example.

What will matter is not your competence but your character.

What will matter are not your memories, but the memories that live in those who loved you. What will matter is how long you will be remembered.

Living a life that matters doesn't happen by accident. It's not a matter of circumstance, but of choice.

You have a choice to make a difference and witness Christ to transform community.

Come join one of the various associations in our Parish

Contact the Parish Office/ Your SCC Animator / PPC Member Today. Tomorrow may be a little late…

- Merwyn Sequeira – Vice President, Parish Pastoral Council


BEING HAPPYExtract from an article of Pope Francis

You may have defects, anxiety, sometimes irritation, but do not forget that your life is the greatest enterprise in the World. Only you can prevent yourself from going into decadence. There are many that need, admire and love you.

Being happy - Is not having a sky without storms, or road without accidents, or work without fatigue, or relationships without disappointments.

It is… finding strength in forgiveness, hope in one's battles, security at the stage of fear, love in disagreements.

To stop being a victim of problems, but become an actor in history itself. Not only to cross the deserts outside of ourselves, but still more, to be able to find an oasis in the recesses of our souls and to thank God every morning for the miracle of life.

Is to know how to talk about ourselves and bear with courage when hearing a “no”. And have the security to receive criticism, even if unfair. To kiss the children, pamper the parents, and have poetic moments with friends, even if they have hurt us.

Allowing the free, happy and simple child inside each of us to live;

Having maturity to say, “I was wrong”, having

audacity to say - Forgive me.Having sensitivity in expressing, “I need you”:

having ability of saying “I love you”.Starting all over again, when you go wrong along

the way. Thus you will be more passionate about life. And will find that happiness is not about having a perfect life but about using tears to water tolerance, losses to refine patience, failures to carve serenity, obstacles to open the windows of intelligence.

Never giving up on the people you love and from being happy

Because life is an incredible show! And you are a special human being

- ELIAS CARVALHO, Vice President – Elders Togetherness Council

-------: CAVEAT :------- The Publisher does not vouch for any claims made by the Advertisers of products or services. The team and the Parish Fathers shall not be held liable for any consequences; in the event such claims are not honoured by the Advertisers.

MONEY…..MONEY…..MONEYMoney is Necessary and Important.But not so important that we do not utilize it even

when we need it most but keep it in bank for someone else to enjoy

No one knows what the future holds for us.It is more important to live longer than to have more

wealth.

Strive to have a strong and healthy body.F In an expensive cell phone, 75% of the functions Fare useless.

In an expensive car, 75% of the speed is not Fneeded.

In a big luxurious house, 75% of the space Fremains unoccupied or unutilized.

In a whole wardrobe of clothes, 75% of them are Frarely worn.

Out of whole life's earnings, 75% stays behind for Fother people to use.

In every human being, 75% of the talent is not F

utilized

So, how to make full use of our 25%?

F Go for medical check-up even when you feel fit.

F Drink more water even if you're not thirsty.

F Let go your ego, whenever you can.

F Give in even if you are right.

F Be humble even if you are very powerful.

F Be contented even if you are not rich.

FHave a Great Life !

BECAUSE ALL OPPORTUNITIES ARE GOD GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES IN LIFE.


EVERYTHING IS HIS GRACE- OSCAR GOMES - Sector 6

Everything from this magnificent body of ours to every breath of air that we breathe is all from the Creator totally free, unconditionally provided to us by Him. If we could only realize this and appreciate it

in our daily life, then every moment of our life would be filled with nothing but gratitude which is a state of being with Him. Every morsel we eat, every drop we drink, every little help that we receive from a fellow being, is provided by Him. If we were to accept them as they really are then we would be very grateful for everything and to everyone for He Himself has come to us in the form of our servant, driver, neighbor, relative,

friend, child or spouse. Prayer is a communion between us and a mighty

force in the form of God but it usually turns into a begging session for our endless wants which is not necessary because He is aware of our desires and wants. So a prayer should be a session devoted not to asking for ourselves but of thanksgiving for all things we have already received and all things we hope to receive.

Count our blessings, name them one by one as the old song goes. A grateful heart is always dear to God. Thank God, we have eyes to see, ears to hear, legs to walk and a tongue to talk, a memory to remember.

Gratitude is the attitude that makes one humble. So let us thank Him.

Parish ScheduleConfessions: - Every Saturday at 6.15 pm or on requestBaptisms: - 1st and 3rd Sunday at the 9.15 am MassSunday Good News Club: - 8.00 am Mass in the Church followed by Cathechism for children.Mass Schedule: - Weekday: 7.00 am and 7.00 pm

- Sundays: 7.00 am, 8.00 am, 9.15 am and 6.00 pm Language Masses: - Konkani: 3rd Sunday - 7.00 am

- Tamil: 1st & 3rd Sunday - 10.30 am- Malayalam: 2nd & 4th Sunday - 10.30 am

Charismatic Prayer: - Tuesdays & Thursdays after the Evening MassChurch Office: - 9.30 am to 1.00 pm and 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm

Sunday Closed

An “ENCOUNTER” TO REMEMBER…..What started off as a compulsory item that needed to

be ticked off the long list of “things to be done before getting married” turned into quite a lovely and relaxing weekend. A breath of fresh air in our hectic stressful lives!

As all couples about to get married, my fiancé and I were deciding when and where to do our marriage preparation course. We had quite a few options, but decided to try out the weekend residential option, “Engaged Encounter” at Vinayalaya, Andheri.

A nice, quiet weekend, at the tranquil and green Jesuit house, away from the hustle and bustle; enjoying the simple pleasures of life while spending quality time together, was what we were expecting, nothing much. But the weekend turned out to be all that and more.

It was such a lovely weekend that I felt compelled to come back and share my experience with other young couples so that others too might benefit from the

experience. We had 5 people to guide us along our path of discovery - of self and of each other – a friendly priest and 2 couples – one senior and one not so senior (but both well seasoned by the ups and downs of married life).

The beauty of this well thought out program was it wasn't a series of boring lectures or a long list of what to do and what not to do. Our “guides” just provoked us to think on certain important (and sometime controversial) topics and then nudged us along gently; to open up and discuss at length, but only with each other. All in all the experience was a very profound one.

I won't divulge much about the details of the weekend since I would like you to go and experience it for yourself and be pleasantly surprised just as I was.

- An engaged lovebird


LIFE IS A GAME OF FOOTBALL- MICHAEL D'SOUZA, Sector 8

The goal post is destination of life. God is the referee walking, running besides me to see how I play. His call, the whistle warns me, sometimes mild with the yellow card, harsh with the red which cuts short my life

by some years. Linesmen are priests, parents, teachers signalling offside and playing foul. Spectators are people observing every act of words and actions in play - praising or cursing me. The ball is my personal life – it's how I dribble with situations, passing and shooting that the goals achieved.

Many a time, I injure others along the way, harming their reputation by jealousy, anger and pride. I try to

move along in life, alone, and I am off target instead of playing as a team to achieve the goal. The 90 minutes is up to 80 years or so in life. At times 30 minutes extra – extra 5 years added to life. If not then comes the penalty shootout. On the sick bed – reconcile with my family, repay all debts, then forgiveness and mercy follows and the final goal is my peace with my God. Then I am awaiting the crown of life facing God's judgment seat. Once the match is over, I am laid to rest, perhaps with people saying - His life was well lived. Someone may ask KISKA GOAL HO GAYA BHAI; AARE MICHAEL KA. He is no more. Then I will be glad to hear from Christ. Well played Michael. Heaven is all yours. This is your crowning glory.

CATECHIST FOR CHRISTThe call of Christ led us catechists to a recollection at

Bandra. The theme: NATIONAL CATECHETICAL DIRECTORY (NCD). Rev. Fr Cyril, SDB began- a teacher only teaches us - intellectual growth, but a catechist is discipleship in the encounter of Jesus and to abide in Him. Catechist is a story teller, more of a mentor committed to the Eucharist and his mission is knowledge of head, heart and spirit, keeping Christ centered teachings of the Church. It's a relationship with Christ – falling in love with Him. This directory is fostering faith of a pilgrim people.

It is NATIONAL – sharing in the cultures and traditions of India. CATECHETICAL celebrating faith in the Sacraments' DIRECTORY – it has guidelines and principles fostering faith. Its message is in the WORD OF GOD; SACRED SCRIPTURES AND

MAGISTERUM. The PEDAGOGY begins from the divine OBJECTIVE – to provide theological and pastoral advice in Indian context. At NATIONAL LEVEL- Bishop sends copy of NCD to priests of diocese. REGIONAL LEVEL- Guidelines from CCBI on use of NCD to diocesan directors. Diocesan level – Every priest and religious gets a copy of NCD. This wealth of information is in concise form.

My prayer would be, let us remain united with one mind and heart as Jesus prayed, before the apostles embarked to spread the gospel message – Go and proclaim the good news and that all may be one. May Mary the Mother and Model of a catechist assist us as we journey along Christ's way.

- MICHAEL D'SOUZA, Sector 8

OUR PARISH FEAST- RANDOLPH ROWE, Parish SCC Co-ordinator

The Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Parish Feast) included three dimensions – the spiritual, the social and the cultural. The Feast Mass at 6.00 p.m. on Sunday, June 05,

2016 was celebrated by the Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Bombay, Fr Neil Santos.

The release of colorful balloons by Fr Neil Santos and our Parish Priest Fr. Gerry Fernandes, marked the beginning of the festivities.

The Tamil Group entertained all with an enchanting dance, the Konkani Group created nostalgia for the village fields and the English Group – 5 Open Cans,

treated us to a rousing session of pulsating music – pop, rock, and masala. The mouth watering delicacies and beverages that were on offer at the food stalls were steadily devoured – the ice cream van was a special attraction.

The games stalls managed by the Youth were well patronized. The auction of the hamper drew considerable interest.

As usual, housie was played with much gusto, and at the end the DJ played some rollicking music that had young and old, ladies and gentlemen, shaking a leg. But, like all good things, this celebration also had to be brought to a close, albeit reluctantly.

Suffice it to say that – a good time was had by all.


PRESIDENT OF THE DIOCESAN YOUTH CENTREKEVIN AROZA of Sector 2 of our Sacred Heart Parish

has been elected President of the Diocesan Youth Centre, of the Archdiocese of Bombay for the year 2016-2017.

On behalf of the Parishioners, Vashi Vision congratulates Kevin and wishes him all the best for his Presidential year at DYC Mumbai!

PRESIDENT OF THE DIOCESAN YOUTH CENTRE SPEAKS…Ever since my school days, I have always been

active in church activities, be it the children's choir or altar servers. As I grew up, so did the responsibilities of being a youth, from an enthusiastic student from the year of my confirmation to being elected as Vice-President of our Parish Youth Council twice. Eventually I represented our parish at the Navi Mumbai Deanery and the Diocese level with the blessings of Rev. Fr Ryan Alex (Diocesan Youth Director), Rev. Fr Baptist Viegas (Deanery Youth D i r e c t o r ) a n d t h e constant support and guidance of the senior and present youth around me. Most importantly, I thank my parents who have always encouraged me to be involved in church activities.

Personally, it is a moment of pride because this is the first time that the elected President is from Navi Mumbai Deanery. Having said that, this should serve as a motivation for all the youth in our Parish and Deanery

to participate at Diocesan level events as the amount of knowledge, skills and exposure received is incomparable. I hope to do my best in the coming year with all the efforts I can put in.

Further, the new core team of Diocesan Youth Centre (DYC) Bombay, comprising of Kevin A r o z a ( P r e s i d e n t ) , Cledwyn Mathias (VP), B r y n e l C o u t i n h o (Secretary) and Charnelle Dias (Secretary WR), have the privilege to represent the Archdiocese of Bombay at the Western Region Youth Council (WRYC). The WRYC has

14 Diocesan Youth Leaders, representing their Diocese across Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat and Daman met for the first time on 25th and 26th June 2016 at Yuvadarshan, Vasai. Viva Abba Viva Yuva!

- KEVIN AROZA – President DYC Mumbai

REACHING FOR THE HEAVENSConfirmation Batch Youth Trek

The youth trek to Rajmachi Fort on 10th July 2016 was awesome! We talked, laughed and sang during our journey. When we reached, it was raining heavily! The higher we climbed, the heavier it began to pour. We came upon clear streams to cross and each sight was more beautiful than the next. We were determined to reach the Fort, and indeed, the view from the top was magnificent. The fog, the mist, the greenery and the cold weather was a joy to experience. I went home drenched but with happy memories to be cherished forever.

- ERIKA RODRIGUES, Sector 9

The trek organised by the Youth Group of Sacred Heart Church was an exceptional one! The weather was at its best and it was fun crossing brooks, overcoming uncountable hurdles and protecting each other during the climb. The view from the plateau still gives me chills. I was spellbound by the beauty of God's creation. I thank God for giving us the strength to trek and witness the picturesque bliss, and thanks to Fr Baptist and Roland for their constant motivation. It was an exhilarating experience and I look forward to more events with the youth!

- ROSHAL PINTO, Sector 16


FREEDOM CUP 2016- KIMBERLEY ROWE, PPC Youth Representative

Annual football tournament “Freedom Cup 2016” was organised by the Parish Youth Group on 15th August from 10 am to 6 pm at Sacred Heart School Ground.

The tournament witnessed 48 determined players showcasing their enthusiasm and football skills for their team while also developing values of healthy competition and team spirit.

Team White owned by Sylvia & Savio Menezes won the tournament followed by Team Black owned by Ricoani D'Souza & Melvin Arul, and Team Yellow owned by Peter Quadros & Valan Arasu. Dexter Peters from Team White was declared the Best Player with 11 goals scored during the matches.

A shout-out to the Youth Group for conducting a successful Freedom Cup this year! We look forward to continue the legacy with more participation and a bigger tournament next year.

PARISH SPORTS DAY 2016- ERIKA RODRIGUES – Sector 9

Parish Sports Day 2016 was organised by Youth Group on 14th August at Sacred Heart School Ground from 3 to 7pm. The games included Chess, Carom Mixed Doubles, Atya Patya, Langdi, Dodge ball, Tic Tac Toe Relay and Tug of War. It was interesting to see the enthusiastic participation of all age groups – senior citizens, adults, teenagers and children.

The winners were St Paul's Community (Sectors 11, 12, 28 & 29), followed by St Francis Xavier (Sector 9) and a tie between St Francis of Assisi (Sector 6) and St Cecilia (Sectors 7& 8).

All parishioners returned home with lots of happy memories, and so did the hardworking team behind this successful event. I would love to be there for next year's Parish Sports Day which I am sure will be twice as fun. You should come too!

PRISONERS NO MORE, BUT BROTHERS AND SISTERS- FLAVIAN SANTARITA

The Church in India observed 14th August, as Prison Ministry Sunday on the Feast of Patron St. Maximilian Kolbe from Poland, who laid down his life for his fellow friend during World War II in the concentration camp.

In this Jubilee year of Mercy, we are called to remember those brethren, and juveniles in Jails, miserably suffering for their mistakes. Let us reach out and pray for their release. The prisoners are part of our society and hence, we call them and treat as our brothers and sisters, give them sacred dignity, support in their healing journey, can we not be an instrument of restoration, forgiveness and re conciliation?

Volunteers from Navi Mumbai unit organized

various programs for the welfare of inmates of Taloja Prison. With the help of Frs Louis & Baptist we had prayer meetings, Easter mass in the prison, and conducted medical camps for dental and skin diseases. Medicines were donated by Glenmark. Drawing competition was organized – Topic “Green India, Clean India “.

Let us believe that God can change the hearts and lives of our brethren, and impact the world by their renewed lives again. “Renew a Prisoner today, Better the World Tomorrow.”

Be a part of this ministry, it is a call to bear the light of Christ to our brethren in Prison. Please contact Fr B a p t i s t 9 7 6 8 5 4 8 1 2 5 e m a i l : [email protected], or Santarita 8655337694.


PRABHU YESHU ki Jai ho ! The 2nd Anniversary celebration of the Hindi

Charismatic Prayer Group of the Parish was held on Wednesday 3rd August 2016 at 7.30 p.m. The celebrations began with Adoration of the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament by Rev. Fr Gerry. The praise and worship led by Meena, and her daughter Aishwarya, in Hindi with songs of praise, worship and thanksgiving with scripture verses was very anointing and we felt the presence of the Lord in our midst. The little children who joined in singing 'Main hoon yahan, hey Prabhu' and 'Aaye hai hum tere charnon mein' motivated us and helped us to participate whole heartedly. Thereafter some of the members of the group - the new believers, shared on how the Lord touched them, transformed their lives and increased their faith which was very

inspiring. The Prayer Service concluded with the Divine Praises in hindi and a concluding hymn 'Aabhar Yeshu'. This was followed by fellowship, greeting one another, sharing views etc while delicious cake, sandwiches and tea was served. There were approximately 42 members present for this occasion.

The 3rd year of our Hindi Prayer Group began with an Eucharistic Celebration in hindi by Rev. Fr Baptist Viegas on Wednesday 10th August, 2016 at 7.30 p.m where approximately 30 members attended. May the Holy Spirit continue to empower the prayer group to grow in faith to love and serve the Lord and one another. Praise the Lord, Alleluia!

- Nataline Buthello & Dr. Mariona Gomes


ST ANTHONY'S COMMUNITY FEAST (Sectors 14 and 26)- NISHITA SUARES - Sector 14

On Saturday 18th June, community members of sectors 14 & 26 celebrated the feast of their Patron, St Anthony of Padua.

Fr Baptist celebrated the Eucharist in the Sacred Heart School Hall. We then wished

each other the 'Joy of Happy Feast'. 65 Community Members were present for the

fellowship. Refreshments were served to quench our thirst along with delicious home-made sandwiches, wafers and cake.

The youth then took charge by welcoming and greeting all. We began with the entertainment programme where children showcased their talents. It

was wonderful to see the little ones performing!! Exciting games were organized; wherein everyone

participated. These games kept all joyful and entertained. A special game for 'Daddy's' was conducted to celebrate Fathers Day.

There were spot prizes too, but with a twist. We also played the famous Housie Game. While the mood of being merry continued, the winners received their gifts.

Aunty Lina led the 'Grace before Meals.' We headed to a sumptuous buffet dinner catered by Spice Catering.

Thank you animators, our secret sponsors and especially the youth; who gave their 100% to make the feast a truly joyful program of fellowshipping and togetherness.

ST ANTHONY'S COMMUNITY CELEBRATES PARENTS DAY - KAREN ARANHA (Sector 14)

On Saturday, 23rd July, 2016, our community celebrated Parent's Day in 5 little clusters. Each cluster gathering comprised of 3-5 families.

Celebration began with 'Prayer Service' followed by cutting of the Parent's Day cake.

Our community decided to do something different from the conventional celebrations. There was a week long effort put in by some of our animators to make the day memorable not only for parents but for children as well. The idea was to bridge the understanding gap between parents and children and to make them see the other side. This idea came from our thoughtful animator, Juliet and we all agreed to go with it.

A questionnaire was circulated, with three simple questions, describing what parents and children/youth admire and dislike about each other and their dreams for their future. All families were asked to fill this and the responses were collated in the form of a PowerPoint presentation along with wedding pictures and childhood photographs, reminiscent of the years gone

by. Interestingly, our animators took extra efforts, to prepare a different presentation, for each cluster, reflecting their replies and moments, specific to that cluster. These were all put together, by our talented youth, Paul Borges, who added special effects and also lovely Hindi melodies, ranging from 'Yaadon ki Baarat' to even the old classic 'Que Sera, Sera'.

Everyone in our clusters enjoyed looking at how we all have changed over the years. Especially most of us kids who were once tiny tots, to now being responsible adults holding full time jobs. As the slides rolled, each parent in the room beamed with pride at the Christian values they have imbibed in their children with their only prayer being the happiness and success of their children.

On Sunday, 24th July, our animators visited homes of those families who could not make it, and a piece of cake was given to them and they were wished too.

One of the greatest titles in the world is 'Parent', and one of the biggest blessings in the world is to have parents to call mom and dad. Parents are indeed a treasure in this world.

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Annual General Body Meeting(AGM) of Vashi Unit of Bombay Catholic Sabha

The Vashi unit of the Bombay Catholic Sabha(BCS) held its AGM on Sunday, 26th June 2016. Invites were sent to all member of the Vashi Unit and BCS members of Koper Khairne Unit were also invited out of whom Fr Sushant Mantri and a few others were present

The Chairman Mr Dominic Pereira welcomed our Parish Priest Fr. Gerry, and all members. The Chairman thanked the members for all their efforts to revive the BCS Vashi Unit. Thereafter the Secretary Mr Francis Dsouza read a detailed report of the programmes conducted by the BCS during the year 2015 – 2016. He also spelt out programmes as the future tasks for the year 2016 -2017. After that it was open to members to ask questions as well as give suggestions, and it was taken care of by Executive members of BCS.

After the business was over, Fr Sushant Mantri Co-ordinator of BCS Navi Mumbai was invited to speak. He with his powerful and meaningful talk electrified the entire audience, a speech which will make a lot of members introspect and realize the real role of the BCS.

Fr Gerry in his simple words enlightened the members and stressed the need as to why more and more people should join the BCS.

The meeting was hosted by Mrs Rose Denis and she thanked each and everyone for being present and ensuring a fruitful AGM. The Executive Council thanked all the people who were present and requested all existing members in Vashi to be active at all future BCS events.

- FRANCIS D'SOUZA – Secretary BCS


THE RITE OF ACCEPTANCE AT ST NICHOLAS COMMUNITYThe Rite of Acceptance was a beautiful experience

for our family. We are touched that our Sector 9A and 10A community came in large numbers to bless our daughter as she takes her next step in her faith formation. We are sure she will treasure the mementos she received for a long time.

- ARUNA AND BERNARD BARRETTO

One of the beautiful and sacred event I have ever attended. The Rite of Acceptance at the residence of Christina and Stanny Monteiro at Mahagajanan Society. The whole of St Nicholas Community had gathered to pray for Shanelle and Jaden our First Holy Communicants as well as Sheldon. Ashley and Simran our Candidates for Confirmation. They were all prayed upon and blessed by the Elders of our Community and

given a token of beautiful handmade flowers by our Community members Lydia Furtado and cards by our very own Melodic Choir Angel Angeline Correa. Thank you everyone, God bless you all.

- SYLVIA ALVARIS

The Rite of Acceptance service was well conducted and it was encouraging to see the large numbers that turned up to bless our children who will be receiving the Sacraments of Holy Eucharist and Confirmation. The community involvement before the administration of the Sacraments is a beautiful thing and it helps us to bond and realise the importance of Faith Formation in our lives.

- DEEPAK CORREA

FELLOWSHIP FOR ELDERS(St Paul's community – Sectors 11, 12, 28 and 29

- SYLVIA PINTO MENEZES, Sector 28

The SCC of St Paul had an evening of fellowship for Elders on Thursday, 14th July beginning with the Eucharist at 7 pm celebrated by Fr Baptist. There were around 30 Elders including 2 from the Elders Group.

The elders responded very enthusiastically with their experiences, when asked in the interactive homily about the difference in today's generation and theirs.

After the Eucharist, Elias Carvalho (Head of the Elders Group of our Parish) informed the Elders on various events they could look forward to. He informed them the health benefits of Yoga and regular exercise and encouraged them to join the yoga class being

conducted in our Parish every Monday. We then had a cake cutting celebration for those who celebrated their birthdays in the month of July. The ever popular game of Housie had each of them eagerly hoping to win the prize money.

The bonding continued with fellowship over a sumptuous dinner prepared by Flavian Santarita. A special thanks to him. Special thanks to Clement and Doris Rasquinha for offering their home for the evening of fellowship

As the evening drew to a close all headed home happy to have been a part of the fellowship and experience. A big thank you to the Animators of St Pauls Community, and to Elias Carvalho for coordinating such a wonderful time for the elders.



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