Media Release
Bantwal, Feb 2: The Mary Mother of God Church, Mogarnad parish community, witnessed a vibrant and spiritually uplifting commencement of the ‘Year of Children 2026’ this Sunday, February 1. The celebration, marked by solemn prayer, symbolic festivities, and cultural performances, placed the younger generation at the centre of the community's vision for this year.
The programme began with a solemn Holy Eucharistic celebration. In a display of unity and family spirit, the liturgy was preceded by a grand procession featuring children and their parents marching together toward the church.
Fr Antony Clanny D’Souza served as the main celebrant for the Mass. In his inspiring homily, he reflected on the ‘Beatitudes,’ urging the congregation to nurture the virtues of purity, humility, and peace that children naturally bring to the world. The spiritual celebration was graced by the presence of the parish priest, Fr Anil Canute D'Mello, the principal of Dev Matha School, Fr Naveen Prakash Pinto, Fr Austin Fernandes, and Deacon Avil Santhmayor.
Inaugural ceremony & cultural programme: Following the Holy Mass, a formal stage programme was held to officially inaugurate the ‘Year of Children 2026.’ In a symbolic gesture representing high hopes and rising potential, children representing every class released colourful helium balloons into the sky, marking the beginning of this special year.
The highlight of the cultural program was the staging of the Konkani play ‘Chiri.’ Written by Dr Alwin Serrao, the drama was enacted by Christopher D’Souza and the renowned team from Asthithwa, Mangalore. The performance was received with great appreciation by the gathered parishioners for its engaging storytelling and impactful message. The inauguration has set a joyous and collaborative tone for the various activities planned for the children throughout 2026.
The event was successfully organized through the collaborative efforts of the Commission for Catechetics & Apostolate (Convener: Anitha D'Souza), the Commission for Family Apostolate (Convener: Joachim Pasanna), and the Commission for Education Apostolate (Convener: John Furtado). The occasion was attended by Parish Council vice president Noel Lobo, secretary Wilfred Lobo, and coordinator for Commissions Seema Maria D'Cunha. Also present to support the mission were the core conveners: Naveen D'Cunha (Service), Anil D'Souza (Witness), Roshan Barboza (Liturgy), and Roys Monteiro (Unity).