Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 2: Holy Family Church, Omzoor, celebrated Children’s Day with great joy and enthusiasm on November 1, as part of the observance of the year of children. The celebration aimed at recognising the importance of children in the church and providing them with an opportunity to showcase their talents, creativity and abilities in a spirit of faith, friendship and togetherness.
The day commenced with the solemn Eucharistic celebration. The Holy Mass was presided over by the parish priest, Fr William Menezes, as the main celebrant, with Fr Lancy Rebello OFM as the concelebrant. Fr Rahul Dexter D’Souza delivered the homily, highlighting the significance of the Beatitudes and the exemplary lives of saints. As the Church celebrated All Saints’ Day, he encouraged the children to follow the footsteps of saints by practising virtues such as humility, kindness, love, forgiveness and compassion in their everyday lives. Following the Holy Mass, breakfast was served to all the children.
The celebrations continued with a formal stage programme attended by the parish clergy and prominent parish leaders. The dignitaries on the dais were Fr William Menezes, parish priest; Fr Rahul Dexter D’Souza, resident priest; Arthur D’Souza, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council; Daffny Lewis, secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; Elroy Saldanha, coordinator of all Commissions; Sr Sabeena, animator of Catechism; Delson Rodrigues, animator of the Missionary Children Association; and Leena, animator of Altar Servers.
The programme began with a prayer song presented by the members of ICYM, invoking God's blessings upon the gathering. Tenisha welcomed the dignitaries and the gathering, compered the programme and later proposed the vote of thanks. The inauguration was marked by the bursting of balloons, symbolising the happiness, innocence and vibrant spirit of childhood. Arthur D’Souza addressed the gathering and shared his thoughts on the significance of Children's Day. This was followed by an inspiring message from the parish priest, Fr William Menezes, who encouraged the children to grow with strong moral values, faith and a sense of responsibility.
Adding colour and vibrancy to the celebration, the ICYM members presented melodious songs, while the teachers entertained the gathering with an energetic dance performance. A special wishing song presented by the Children's Day celebration committee added to the festive spirit and conveyed heartfelt wishes to all the children.
The celebration became even more exciting with an engaging ice-breaking session, followed by a variety of fun-filled games and activities. The children participated enthusiastically, displaying their energy, teamwork and sporting spirit. These games and competitions, organised especially for the occasion, provided a wonderful platform for the children to interact, enjoy and create happy memories.
A special highlight of the day was the recognition and felicitation of children who dressed up as different saints and portrayed their lives and virtues. Their creative presentations beautifully reflected the spirit of All Saints’ Day and inspired everyone to follow the path of holiness.
Prizes were also distributed to the winners of various games conducted during the catechism classes. The winners of the flower arrangement competition organised by ICYM were also recognised and awarded prizes for their creativity and artistic talents.
Before the meal, a special blessing was offered, seeking God's grace upon the food and everyone present. The celebrations concluded with a sumptuous meal shared by all, strengthening the bond of fellowship and togetherness within the parish community.
The Children's Day celebration at Holy Family Church, Omzoor, was truly a memorable and fun-filled occasion. With spiritual nourishment, cultural performances, exciting games, competitions and recognition of young talents, the day brought smiles and happiness to every child. The celebration beautifully reflected the spirit of the year of children, reminding everyone that children are precious gifts of God and the hope of the Church and society. It was indeed a day filled with faith, laughter, friendship and cherished memories.