by Cl. Nathaneal George
WADALA-MUMBAI, NOVEMBER 19, 2014: On November 16, 2014 the Mamma Margaret Association (bringing together the parents of the Salesians residing in Mumbai city and suburbs) had its annual get-together at Our Lady of Dolours' Parish Wadala, Mumbai. This annual occasion was a splendid opportunity for the parents to acquaint themselves with one another and with the Salesians of the province; to meet old friends and catch up on various things.
The celebration began at 11:00 a.m. with the Euchari
st which was presided over by their well-known octogenarian Fr. Salvador D'Souza whose birthday it was. Other Salesian priests from the nearby communities joined in as concelebrants. The homilist, Fr. Matthew Coutinho, emphasized on the virtues of generosity and commitment in family life. The mass was followed by a short video presentation, enlightening the parents on the various youth activities being conducted by the Mumbai province.
Fr. Godfrey D'sa, the Rector welcomed one and all and then introduced the birthday boy. In his little speech, Fr. Salvador spoke of his secret to a happy life: forgiveness which was received with many nods of affirmation. After the cutting of the cake the gathering felicitated Fr. Salvador. Roney Gomes and his wife Mylene then took the gathering down memory lane as they played and sang the golden oldies and mesmerized everyone with their wonderful music. The music was interspersed with some amusing games conducted by Cls. Nathaneal and Avil.
These were moments of interaction, of fun and familiarity. The parents had a wonderful afternoon followed by a scrumptious lunch. The final attraction was the 'housie' which had everyone on edge secretly hoping to bag one of the lovely prizes. Much of the programme was coordinated by Fr. Vivian D'Souza, the SalFam delegate of the province, and the host community of Our Lady of Dolours Church which spared no efforts to ensure the smooth running of the event.
The programme ended with the vote of thanks proposed by Fr. Matthew Coutinho, who recommended the Salesians of the province to the prayers and intercession of the parents. All departed with a feeling of satisfaction and joy after seeking the Lord's blessings and pledging to be closely united in the mission.