THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
The Parish of St Thomas, Aldona, celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on September 8 with faith and devotion.
The celebration was held under the theme, “Ankvar Maria amkam nomuno, Tiche bhaxen ami-i Jezun Rigun ravum-ia,”
The nine-day novena commenced on August 30 with the Rosary and Holy Mass each day. Different virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary were reflected upon during the novena, with the Sunday school children taking responsibility for presenting these reflections under the guidance of their catechism teachers.
The novena helped the children and parishioners deepen their understanding of Mary’s virtues and encouraged them to practise these qualities in their daily lives.
During the novena after communion ‘Sweet Voices’ rendered beautiful hymns of Mother Mary as a tribute to Blessed Virgin Mary.
The solemn Feast Mass was celebrated by Assistant Parish priest Fr Agnel Simoes along with Parish priest Fr Joe Rodrigues. The liturgy was enriched by the participation of the children’s choir and senior choir, who rendered meaningful hymns under the guidance of Fr Joe Rodrigues, creating a prayerful and reverent atmosphere.
Following the Mass, a special programme was organised by the catechism children to honour the mothers of the parish and acknowledge their unconditional love, dedication and sacrifices. The programme began with a welcome song, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony.
In his message, Fr Joe appreciated the mothers, describing them as the “heartbeat of the family” and the “first catechists of faith.” He invoked the intercession of Mother Mary and prayed for God’s blessings upon all mothers and their families.
The children presented a narration on the life of Mother Mary, highlighting her faith, obedience, love and sacrifice. A thanksgiving song and a dance portraying the sacrifices and important role of mothers added meaning and emotion to the programme.
Spot prizes, conducted by Christjoy Fernandes, brought moments of fun and laughter among the mothers. The programme was anchored by catechism children Adelia Fernandes and Lee D'Silva, trained by Tr Andrea Lobo.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Betty Fernandes.
