Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 26: The Catechism Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at St Sebastian Church, Bendur, on February 22. The celebration commenced with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Fr Alwyn Richard D’Souza, director of the Family Life Centre and Guardian of St Zuze Vaz Home, Jeppu, as the main celebrant. He was joined by vicar, Fr Walter D’Souza, Fr Vivek Pinto. The liturgy and choir for the Mass were conducted by the children, making it a truly special and meaningful event.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the main programme began in the Platinum Jubilee Hall.
The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including the chief guest, Fr Alwyn Richard D’Souza, vicar Fr Walter D’Souza, catechism assistant director Fr Vivek Pinto, assistant priest Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Padua college principal Fr Arun Lobo, Br Stin George, vice president of the parish council Vinod D’Souza, secretary Patsy Britto, all commission convenor Deepak D’Souza, and catechism coordinator Mercine Pereira.
The programme commenced with a beautiful prayer dance performed by the students of the 8th standard, setting a reverent and joyful tone for the evening. Fr Vivek Pinto, the catechism director, extended a warm welcome to the guests and the gathering, emphasizing the importance of faith formation in the lives of young Catholics.
A series of engaging and creative class-wise performances followed, showcasing the students’ talents and their understanding of biblical teachings:
• 1st and 2nd standard: A lively and colorful dance performance.
• 3rd standard: A skit on the parable of talents.
• 4th standard: A dramatization of the parable of the Five Wise and Five Unwise Virgins.
• 6th standard: A depiction of the life and healing of Blind Bartimaeus.
• 7th standard: A skit on the Parable of the Good Samaritan.
• 9th standard: A thought-provoking skit on the influence of mass media.
• 10th standard: A melodious and heartfelt song presentation.
Adding a personal touch to the evening, students of the 10th standard, Joanna Noella Pereira and Deon Frank Sequeira, came forward to share their experiences of catechism classes, expressing gratitude for the guidance and moral values imparted to them.
Mercine Pereira then presented a comprehensive report on the year’s catechism activities, highlighting the efforts made by teachers and students in deepening their faith. Following this, Jasmine Vas shared her reflections on behalf of the teachers, acknowledging their dedication and the rewarding experience of nurturing young minds in faith.
The chief guest, Fr Alwyn Richard D’Souza, delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the importance of catechism in shaping the moral and spiritual foundations of children. He commended the efforts of the teachers, parents, and students in keeping the spirit of faith alive.
The vicar, Fr Walter D’Souza, gave the presidential address, expressing gratitude to the catechism teachers for their valuable time and dedication. He also took the opportunity to felicitate the sponsors who contributed to the success of the event.
Prizes were then distributed to the students who achieved the highest scores in the catechism exams, those with full attendance, and the winners of various catechism-related activities conducted throughout the year. This recognition served as an encouragement for all students to remain committed to their faith education.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Sr Cynthia, who expressed appreciation for the contributions of everyone involved in making Catechism Day a memorable occasion.
Fr Lawrence Cutinha then blessed the meal, after which children and parents enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by the parishioners. The entire program was efficiently anchored by Aldreena Diya Rodrigues and Arvin D’Souza, who kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.
The Catechism Day celebration was a resounding success, filled with faith, learning, and joy. It reinforced the significance of religious education in the lives of young Catholics and left a lasting impact on all who attended.