LONDON
The Goan Chaplaincy UK held its first-ever mega carol singing presentation at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Hayes, London on December 13, from 2 pm.
The event brought together various Goan Chaplaincy Mass Centres from across London for an afternoon of joyful celebration and worship. Over 100 children and young people participated, reminding everyone that they are the future of the faith and community.
The theme of the programme, ‘Christmas Begins with Christ’, was reflected throughout the presentations. The vision of the mega carols was to bring children together to sing and proclaim the Good News.
Presentations were led by Fr Renato Andrade, SFX, Chaplain of the Goan Chaplaincy UK, and the Chaplaincy Choir, with contributions from Mass Centres in Cranford, Hayes, Heathrow, Hounslow, Osterley, Southall, and Wembley.
The event opened with a prayer led by Fr Joseph Raju Katthula CMF, Superior at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, who reflected on the meaning of Christmas as a time of waiting — awaiting Christ’s coming anew into our hearts, our lives, and our communities through the mystery of the Incarnation.
Fr Renato warmly welcomed all participants and attendees. He encouraged everyone to celebrate Christmas as a season of peace, hope, and love, and expressed particular joy in welcoming the young people from all the Mass Centres.
The highlight of the day was all participants collectively singing the Feliz Navidad and coming of the Father Christmas distributing sweets to the young ones.
Fr Chris Newman CMF was also acknowledged for his hospitality and support, and to all the singers, musicians, narrators, skit presenters, Nativity Crib children, and parents whose dedication made the event a success.
The event was organised by the Goan Chaplaincy core committee which comprises the Mass centre representatives. The event was compered by Charles Dias and the vote of thanks was delivered by Jennifer D’Silva.
The event was live-streamed and is available on the Goan Chaplaincy UK YouTube channel, allowing many more to share in the joy of the celebration.
“The mission of the event echoed the Gospel message that Jesus is the true root and we are the branches. As the Good Shepherd, Christ gathers His flock through the representatives of each Mass Centre, strengthening unity within the Goan Chaplaincy and helping to re-evangelise the community,” said Fr Renato.
“The sight of so many children and young people taking part in the carol singing moved many to tears of joy, making this a powerful moment of re-evangelisation.”
