Report: Meena Serrao Barboza
Mangaluru, Nov 18: On Saturday, November 15, Catechism Day was celebrated with profound devotion and spiritual grace at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel.
Fr Rohith D’Costa, director, Diocesan Catechetical Centre, presided over the sacred Eucharistic celebration. The Holy Mass was concelebrated by Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal, St Lawrence English Medium School, and Fr Lawrence Cutinha, assistant parish priest and director for Sunday Catechism. The parish children led the liturgy with reverence, beautifully reflecting a “Faith Formed and Hope Filled” Church and a generation growing in God’s Word and light.
Fr Rohith D’Costa, in his inspiring homily, reflected on the love and hope that come from God. He reminded the faithful that if we experience God’s love, there is no place for fear and that only faith that brings healing and strength as true children of God. He emphasized that children are a precious gift from God, and the celebration of God’s love is made complete in the Eucharist.
Fr Rohith highlighted that parents are the first and most important teachers of faith. He encouraged families to help their children pray the Rosary, keep a personal Bible, crucifix, and prayer book, and create an atmosphere of prayer at home, so that children may grow as true and faithful children of God.
The children’s choir elevated the celebration with their angelic and soul-stirring hymns, filling the sanctuary with melodies that lifted hearts heavenward and deepened the experience of prayer.
The second part of the celebration commenced on the St Lawrence Church grounds, where engaging games were organized for the children, filling the atmosphere with joy, excitement, and enthusiastic participation. The Catechism Day celebration began with a meaningful introduction by Std 10 students Ashlon and Navitha, followed by a heartfelt prayer and a graceful prayer dance performed by the children.
The guests were then welcomed to the dais, where Lavina Menezes, the Sunday Catechism coordinator, delivered the welcome note, warmly greeting the gathering. As a gesture of appreciation, the teachers presented a flower sapling to the esteemed guests.
Fr Rohith D’Costa, Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal, St Lawrence English Medium School, Fr Lawrence Cutinha, assistant priest, John D’Silva (vice president of the parish council), Santhosh Misquith (secretary of the parish council), Manoj Lewis, commission coordinator, Lavina Menezes (Catechism coordinator), Elizabeth Pinto (secretary) were present on the dais.
The guest, Fr Rohith D’Costa, in his message to the children and parents, shared a beautiful thought: “A child is rooted in God.” Just as a fish cannot survive without water and sapling withers when removed from the soil, likewise, we too cannot thrive without God, His love, and His presence. Children may grow in talent and ability, but without God at the center, our celebrations and achievements lose their true meaning. He encouraged everyone to give the first place to God and allow children to shine in the light of His love.
In his presidential address, Fr Peter Gonsalves highlighted the significance of Catechism Day and encouraged the children to grow in faith and values. He emphasized the importance of prayer and catechism, reminding everyone that the Eucharistic celebration and catechetical formation should be given top priority in order to strengthen one’s faith. He also congratulated the Catechism teachers for their dedicated and selfless service.
The winners of the Marian Hymns competition and the Bible Quiz competition were felicitated with certificates and mementos by the guests on the dais.
On the occasion of Children’s Day, the teachers sang a special song for the children. In recognition of their selfless and dedicated service, the teachers were felicitated with gifts by Fr Rohith D’Costa, the chief guest.
Students from grade 1 to PUC presented a variety of engaging performances, including an inspiring Bible skit and vibrant group dances that beautifully conveyed faith-filled messages through creative storytelling and spiritual dramatization. A large number of parents, teachers, and children gathered to witness and celebrate this special occasion.
Elizabeth Pinto, secretary of Sunday Catechism, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone, especially the parish clergy.
Towards the conclusion of the programme, Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the parish priest, expressed his appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the event, especially Fr Lawrence, Fr Peter, the teachers, and all the volunteers. He then led the Grace before Meals along with the Angelus.
The celebration came to a joyful end with dinner and ice cream served to all the children and parents. It was a remarkable and heartwarming Children’s Jubilee celebration.