by Libby Sequeira and Susan D'Costa
KUWAIT, MAY 29, 2018: The Salesian community, along with their families and the parishioners, gathered at the St. Therese of the Child Jesus church, Salmiya Kuwait on June 24, to celebrate the Feast of Mary Help of Christians.
The celebration began with Holy Mass, which was celebrated by Father Lionel Braganza, concelebrated by Father Derrick Misquita, the Rector of the Salesians, and Father Blany Pinto.
In his homily, Father Braganza shed light on how honour is bestowed on Mary for her role in the redemption of mankind. Hence "All generations will call her blessed", he said.
He also narrated how the battle of Lepanto which took place on October 7, 1571 was won because of the intervention of Our Lady. For this reason, this date was chosen as the feast of the Holy Rosary. He added that in 1809, Napoleon's men entered the Vatican, arrested Pope Pius VII and brought him in chains to Grenoble.
The Holy Father vowed to God that, if he were restored to the Roman See, he would institute a special feast in honour of Mary. Military reverses forced Napoleon to release the Pope, and on May 24, 1814, Pius VII returned in triumph to Rome. Twelve months later, the Pope decreed that the feast of Mary Help of Christians, be kept on May 24 .
After the homily, all the Salesian Cooperators renewed their promise to continue to be loyal and committed to their mission. A short programme, which included games, dancing and a festive meal, followed.
"It was so much fun with all the Cooperators and their families as well as the three priests who were all playing around, dancing, singing and having loads of fun like little kids," Christopher Pereira, a Salesian Cooperator, said.
Evelyn D'Souza, another Cooperator, added, "We felt spiritually united to the Salesian family, as we participated in the enriching Eucharistic celebration and the fellowship thereafter strengthened our bond further – not just the Cooperators but their families as well."