Photography: Anvita Photography
Report: Meena Serrao Barboza
Mangaluru, Mar 9: On March 8, at 7 am, a thanksgiving Mass was solemnly celebrated at St Lawrence Church and Shrine Bondel to honour and appreciate the women of the parish on the occasion of International Women's Day.
The holy Mass was celebrated by Fr Peter Gonsalves, spiritual director, Ladies Association Bondel. During his homily, Fr Peter reflected on the invaluable role of women in today’s society. He appreciated their dedication, strength, and faith, and acknowledged the many ways they contribute to the well-being of their families, the Church, and the wider community. The liturgy and choir were beautifully led by the members of the Ladies Association Bondel, making the celebration prayerful and meaningful.
At 10 am, a stage programme was organised at the church hall of St Lawrence Church and Shrine Bondel in collaboration with the Ladies Commission, Ladies Association Bondel, Family Commission, Secular Franciscan Order, and the Legion of Mary.
The guests and dignitaries who gathered in the hall were warmly welcomed with the traditional Chende beats and were gracefully escorted to the stage by the members of the Ladies Association Bondel, led by their president and head of all commissions, Avitha Mascarenhas.
Guests of honour Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza – parish priest; Fr Lawrence Cutinha – asst. priest; Fr Peter Gonsalves – spiritual director; Anita Frank – secretary, Diocesan Women’s Commission; Lydia D'Cunha – former president, DCCW; Mable Fernandes – representative, DCCW; Jasmine Sarita Vas – professor, MSc Nursing, Yenepoya University; John D'Silva – vice president, PPC; Alwyn Saldanha – secretary, PPC; and Avitha Mascarenhas – president, Ladies Association & All Commission head, were on the dais for the programme.
The stage programme began with a prayer song along with a welcome dance. On Women’s Day, honouring womanhood, a mannequin placed in front of the stage was crowned by placing a crown on her head by Anita Frank, Lydia D’Cunha, and Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza.
The programme was inaugurated in this unique way, symbolising that women hold a special and respected place in society. A senior member of the Ladies Association, Janeview Albuqure, who had been unwell and recovered from her illness, was felicitated with a shawl, and flower bouquet as a gesture of love, appreciation, and gratitude for her presence and strength.
The welcome address was delivered by Eugene Fernandes, vice president of the Ladies Association, who warmly greeted the gathering and highlighted the significance of celebrating and honouring women. The dignitaries present on the dais were also welcomed with flower bouquets by the members, expressing respect and appreciation for their presence at the programme.
On Women’s Day, Anita Frank, in her inspiring message, encouraged women to value themselves and take time for their own well-being. She reminded everyone that while women lovingly care for their families and others, it is equally important for them to show the same care and concern for themselves. She urged women to recognise their strength, dignity, and the beauty of womanhood, and to live with confidence, self-respect, and courage in today’s society.
Lydia D’Cunha, in her talk, explained what DCCW (Diocesan Council of Catholic Women) is, when it began, and the various works currently undertaken by the organisation .She also spoke about the aims and mission of the organisation, presenting them in a simple and clear manner, enabling everyone present to understand and appreciate the role and service of the association.
In recognition of his dedicated service and good works in the parish, Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza was felicitated by the members of the Ladies Association with a shawl, garland citation letter, flowers, and a bouquet as a mark of gratitude, appreciation, and love for his guidance and support to the parish community. The members also expressed their heartfelt thanks and conveyed their best wishes for his future mission and pastoral service.
In his message, Fr Andrew highlighted the unique and irreplaceable role of women in the family. He said that a woman is like an ornament of the family, bringing love, care, and harmony into the home. He added that the presence of a woman makes the family beautiful and complete, as she fills the home with warmth, strength, and unity..
The main resource person, Jasmine Sarita Vaz, spoke on the theme “Women and Family.” She emphasised the importance of women caring for their physical and mental health, encouraging them to stay active and undergo regular health check-ups. She also urged women to be independent and self-reliant, using their talents such as cooking or small jobs to earn an income. She encouraged women not to depend entirely on their children, but to live with dignity, confidence, and financial independence.
Avitha Mascarenhas, the president of the Ladies Association and currently the Head of all Commissions of the Parish, was felicitated for her dedicated service and leadership to the Parish community.
Sunitha Lewis was recognised and sincerely thanked for her wonderful creativity in preparing the beautiful backdrop.
The cultural programme added colour and joy to the celebration, featuring songs, a kawali on vegetables, a skit, the Bondel Women’s Premier League, and Baila Bayamma, which entertained the gathering and highlighted the talents of the Ladies Association members.
The programme was compered by Anitha Concessao and Dr Preethi D”Souza. The vote of thanks was delivered by the secretary, Veena D’Souza, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event. The prayer before the meal was led by Fr Peter Gonsalves.
The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, where everyone gathered together in a spirit of joy, unity, and gratitude, bringing the beautiful Women’s Day programme to a meaningful end.