Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 24: The Altar Servers and Marian Sodality Day was celebrated with grandeur and reverence on August 21 under the able guidance of Fr Anil D Mello, parish priest by the Commission for Vocation and Formation.
The celebration began with a High Mass celebrated by Fr Joswin D'Souza, professor of Philosophy, St Joseph’s Inter Diocesan Seminary, Mangaluru and Fr Anil D'Mello, parish priest. The entrance procession made its way symbolizing that journey – from the world outside the doors at the back of the church, to our heavenly destination, symbolized by the sanctuary at the front of the church with the Altar Servers all vested for the occasion and Sodality members holding a Rose in hand symbolizing true love and passion, fragrant in a diverse range of colors, was arranged in the pot.
In his thought provoking homily Fr Joswin D'Souza said, “In life’s journey one comes across all kinds of life giving heroes or pro-lifers, those who have made it from rags to riches, rescued others in moments of crises and victims of fatal diseases and fought the battles of life and those who love others with an unconditional love. It is not easy to be role models as it requires hard work, discipline and sacrifice. Choosing the narrow door, choosing the Lord, involves coming to know Him with our heart and mind, growing in our relationship with Him so that He becomes a significant presence in our lives”. He further elucidated the life of St John Berchmans, the Patron Saint of Altar Servers, his three treasures - crucifix, book of rules, and rosary and his saying: “If I do not become a saint when I am young, I shall never become one” with tangible instances.
Soon after the holy mass, a meaningful programme was arranged in the parish auditorium. Fr Anil D'Mello, Fr Joswin D'Souza, Ravi Saldanha and Prakash Pereira, vice president and secretary of parish pastoral council, Sr Sujatha and Sister Mavis, Superiors of Holy Cross Convent and Carmel Ashram respectively and Maurice Renjal- coordinator of 21 commissions were the dignitaries who graced the occasion.
Kenneth Lobo who served as altar boy to St Pope Paul II during his pastoral visit to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi for the solemn promulgation of the Post Synodal Apostolic Exhortation was present for the occasion.
The young boys and girls kept the gathering glued to their seats with action songs. Fr Anil D Mello, director of the Altar Boys and Marian Sodality inspired all, with his wonderful words of thankfulness and invigoration. He focused attention on 'Mistakes are for Growth', 'Accepting Mistakes' and be open to the rectifications by parents.
Br Rakesh Francis conducted fun filled games that taught the children valuable life skills like teamwork, problem solving and promoted self-esteem. The programme concluded with lunch. Nora Lobo compered the programme. Sr Patricia Crasta welcomed the gathering and Beena D'Cunha proposed a vote of thanks.