Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 26: Marking the ‘Year of Children’, the Commission for Catechetical Apostolate, together with the children of St Sebastian Church, Bendur, organized a grand devotional concert titled ‘Divine Echoes’ at the parish’s Platinum Jubilee Hall. The mega event brought together children from grade 1 to PUC, who showcased their faith and talents through devotional songs, dances, instrumental performances, mime and drama.
The programme commenced with a magnificent brass band performance by the parish children, led by J R Furtado of Bantwal. The procession was joined by the parish priests, catechism coordinators, teachers and religious sisters. The welcome address was delivered by Fr Joel Montheiro, assistant parish priest and event convenor.
The preschoolers captivated the audience with their colourful presentation, portraying biblical personalities, Marian apparitions and saints. Seventeen young participants enthusiastically took part in the character presentation, accompanied by the encouragement of their parents.
Children from grades 1 to 4 presented a graceful dance to ‘Christ be our light’ and a trilingual action song. The parish’s young instrumentalists then performed the hymn ‘In moments like this’, showcasing their musical talents on drums, ukulele, acoustic and bass guitars, violin and keyboard.
Students from grades 5 to 7 presented the popular Kannada hymn ‘Jaya Koduva Devarige’, followed by the energetic devotional dance ‘Taali Bajayenge, Nachenge’. A mime depicting the story of Creation further captivated the audience, conveying a meaningful spiritual message through expressive movements.
A special felicitation ceremony honored twelve talented children for their achievements. Eighteen altar servers were also recognized for their dedicated service at the altar and presented with mementos by the parish priests. The donor, Ozwald Pais, was present on the occasion.
Delivering the presidential address, parish vicar Fr Walter Dsouza appreciated the efforts of the event convenors, catechism teachers and volunteers. He also encouraged parents to nurture devotional practices among children and integrate faith into their everyday lives. The parish priests delighted the gathering by singing the Konkani song ‘Bhurgi Nenthi, Khalthi Bholi’, which received enthusiastic applause.
The programme featuring students from grades 8 to 10 included melodious renditions of ‘Somya Deva Ajapta’ and ‘Abide with Me’, accompanied by a graceful dance. An inspirational play depicting the relationship between a father and son conveyed a positive message to the audience. Members of the Young Christian Students (YCS) movement added to the spiritual atmosphere with an elegant dance to the devotional hymn ‘Aradhana Teri Aradhana’.
The event also recognized the contributions of parish pastoral council representatives, catechism teachers, choreographers, voice-over artists, technical teams and numerous volunteers who worked behind the scenes to make the concert a success. Special appreciation was expressed to those involved in directing and recording the play, preparing the choreography, managing the sound and lighting, and providing photography and videography services.
The concert was coordinated by the catechism team under the guidance of Fr Joel Montheiro, with the dedicated support of teachers, parents, sisters and parish volunteers. Jasmine Sarita Vas, Catechism coordinator of Bendur Parish, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the children, parents, sponsors and all those who contributed to the event, including supporters of Mission Sunday Fr Arun Lobo lead ‘grace before the meals.
The entire programme was compered by Viola Lenza D’Souza and Leanna Jean Crasta, with students also hosting individual segments.
The evening concluded on a joyful note with a sumptuous meal provided by Nishwyn Caterers, under the young proprietor Alistair D’Souza, and ice cream generously donated by Alwyn Pinto and family of Aroma Caterers.