by Father Bento D'Souza
Around 250 parishioners from Our Lady of Fatima in Karjat marked the Feast of Don Bosco by organising a cultural programme which followed a special Eucharistic celebration on January 28.
Celebrations were tailored around the theme, "We celebrate Don Bosco accompanying the young in the context of youth and family." Bishop Percival Fernandes, the Bishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Mumbai, was the chief celebrant of the holy Eucharist.
The girls of Good Shepherd Convent, Karjat performed an introductory prayer dance. Father Callistus Fernandes, the parish priest welcomed the Bishop at the beginning of the holy Eucharist. Bishop Fernandes, in his homily, extolled the qualities of Don Bosco, which was his pioneering service in accompanying the young that is continued by the Salesians today around the world.
A youthful choir of Our Lady of Dolours parish, Wadala, sang and animated the celebration with their melodious voices. Father Monty Rodrigues thanked the gathering and told them the reason for celebrating the feast of the founder and universal friend of youth, Saint John Bosco.
Father Bento D'Souza then introduced Bishop Fernandes to the audience during the cultural programme. The programme depicted scenes from the dramatic story of Don Bosco's life. It was enacted by the apprentices and trainees of the Don Bosco Youth Centre, Mothe Vengaon, Karjat.
The feast day celebration was attended by the religious Ursuline, Good Shepherd and Holy Cross sisters, Khopoli and also senior citizens from Dadar's Salvation parish. Brother Alex Carvalho led the coordination of the event, while Father Jesu Robinson ensured all logistical arrangements were made for the event.