BIS Mumbai
BOSCO INFORMATION SERVICE # 3341
PREPARING THE WAY FOR THE NEW ARRIVAL
Amira Peter
NORTH ARABIAN VICARIATE, JANUARY 28, 2013: On Thursday January 24, 2013 the Family Ministry and the 
Healing Ministry of St Therese of the Child Jesus Parish in the North Arabian Vicariate, organized a joint program for the first time for all expectant mothers and their families. It was attended by about fifty expectant couples. Some were accompanied by the expectant grandparents and siblings of the expectant baby.
The program began with a special mass celebrated by Fr Franco Pereira. A special liturgy was prepared keeping 
expectant mothers and their spouses in mind. In his homily, Fr Franco encouraged the expectant couples to place their faith in the Lord as did Elizabeth and Mary. Despite their differing ages, these prayerful women brought beautiful life into this world. He also encouraged the couples to build a set of family values that can be passed on through their loving and living examples.
The liturgical singing was animated by the melodious voices of the Children’s choir led by Faust Nash, supported by his wife Reema on projection.
After the mass, a core member of the Healing Ministry and a leading physiotherapist in Kuwait, Dr. Milania Jacob delivered a brief presentation on the physiological and psychological changes that a woman undergoes at this time. By increasing awareness particularly among the husbands, the new dads were also given some tips on supporting their wives as they prepare themselves for the arrival of the little one. After the presentation, Dr. Milania demonstrated some prenatal and post natal exercises to help ease some of the discomfort and strengthen muscle tone.
All this while, in a separate room, Chrisma Pereira our children’s volunteer of the Family Ministry had organized a movie, light entertainment and surprise presents for the children.
The light snacks served at the end of the program were welcomed by all after a long day. The audience was extremely appreciative of the thoughtful and relevant initiative of the family cell. The next program for the expectant mothers and their families is scheduled for July 25, 2013.
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