by Sweedle D'Souza
KUWAIT, DEC 19, 2017: The monthly meeting by Ray of Light, Faith and Light Community, which is a community of people with intellectual disabilities, 
was held to share friendships, pray together and celebrate life in the Dana Hall, Shaab in Kuwait on December 15.
The meeting centred on the Word of the month, 'Lord you came into our world to reveal to us your Father and our Father'. To emphasise the theme of the event, a manger with baby Jesus was placed at the entrance and each family member and friend was asked to write down what gift they would like to give Jesus for His birthday and they offered it during Holy Mass.
Father Joy Marangatikala, the former Spiritual Director of the community, who is presently visiting Kuwait and the current Spiritual Director, Father Johnson Nedumpurath were present at the meeting. Father Nedumpurath welcomed his predecessor and expressed his thanks for introducing him to Faith and Light, and for animating the meeting.
Brothers and sisters with intellectual disabilities played an active role at Holy Mass. Kenny Dias and Brandon served at the altar and Xyruz Mago read the prayers of the faithful. The Gospel reading was brought to life with a short enactment of the Birth of Jesus by Emmanuel Alleluya as Joseph, Sheetal D'Souza as Mary, Xyruz Mago and Rachel Tuscano as angels, Kenny Dias and Bennedict Fernandes as shepherds. In his sermon Father Marangatikala encouraged those present to prepare themselves to receive baby Jesus in their hearts by making a good Confession, and by acts of love and kindness during this holy month of Advent.
The word of the month, "Lord, You came into our world to reveal to us your Father and our Father," was further animated by Anthony Alleluya, who urged the audience to learn to discover His face and His presence in all brothers and sisters especially in the weakest.
The programme also included a group discussion, a game, the cutting of a cake for those celebrating their birthdays and anniversaries during the month, and finally, the sharing of a meal prepared and brought by family and friends of the community.
Everyone received a symbolic gift, which included a glass bowl, a candle, a Christmas ornament and three chocolates. The glass bowl symbolised service, the candle signified the shedding of the light of Christ, the Christmas ornament symbolised a blessed Christmas and the chocolates served as a reminder of the Holy Trinity.