by Molly D'souza
KUWAIT, SEP 9, 2015: 'Ephphatha' or 'Be Opened' was the theme for a special mass that marked the start of Catechism classes for the year 2015-2016 in the Northern Arabian Vicarate, Kuwait on September 4.
Children, parents and teachers of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus parish joined the celebration. The Catechetical Director of the Vicariate of Northern Arabia, Father Francisco Pereira, celebrated the Holy Eucharist. In his homily, he shed light on the word 'Ephphatha' which means 'Be Opened'.
He explained how each one must be open to the Word of God. He invited the children to grow in faith, with the help of their teachers.
After the homily, all the catechists congregated near the altar. In one voice, they all renewed their commitment as catechists as they took a solemn pledge. This was followed by the recitation of the Creed. The children's choir sang melodiously.
The Parish is blessed with more than one thousand seven hundred children who attend the catechism classes every Friday. We have more than 150 Catechists who are committed to teaching the Faith to the little ones. The teachers attend a course conducted by Father Franco to qualify as 'catechists.' The St. Therese parish also caters to the challenged children by organising a 'Special Needs' class. This class is assisted by five teachers who teach catechism to the special children.
Annually there is a Retreat, tied-up with seminars and faith building talks, which help the Catechists to keep pace with the changing world. We thank God for counting us worthy and pray for His grace to help us serve in this noble task.
"For, without HIM, we can do nothing."