Editorial... Christmas - Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

Transcription

1 Bulletin of Sacred Heart Parish, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. Vol. XXXV - No.-6, December 2016-January 2017 Christmas - Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow -RANDOLPH ROWE, Parish SCC Cordinator Sombre images of simple shepherds tending their flock of sheep on a star-lit hill-side and iridescent visuals of three wise men in sartorial splendor; proceeding to honor the Child in the manger, the Messenger of Peace for all strata of society, born to unite all of humanity into one loving family. That is the message that reverberates every Christmas. Christmas Day, in the seventies and the early eighties in Vashi, invariably began with the Eucharist at 12 midnight; celebrated in the Indian Education Society's Navi Mumbai High School hall in Sector 1. Those were the days when every Catholic family knew nearly every other Catholic family in Vashi. And while the joy of celebrating in the Eucharist, the birth of Jesus, would be spread over more than an hour, the joy of exchanging Christmas greetings after the Mass lasted much longer. Forty years later, much water has flowed down the Vashi creek. The geography and diversity of the Parish have metamorphosed before the disbelieving eyes of older Parishioners who were instrumental in the construction of a majestic Church building that was inaugurated on April 24, The Church will enter into its 25th year on April 24, A Church is defined not only by its structure but by the strength, energy and passion of its community of faithful. The past 25 years have been a witness to the steadfast Editorial... devotion, remarkable dynamism, collaborative spirit, and inclusive participation of Parishioners in all spheres of activities spiritual, social, outreach and civic. The dramatic increase in the activities of the Small Christian Communities (SCC) in congruence with the whole-hearted participation of Parishioners in the Bible Cell, Bombay Catholic Sabha, Divine Mercy Cell, Elders' Group, Family and Women's Commission, Health Cell, Lectors and Cantors Group, Legion of Mary, Liturgical Cell, Prayer Group, Pre-Baptism Cell and Prison Ministry is testimony to the holistic growth of the Parish. The vibrancy of the Sunday School which is visible in the classrooms and in their activities, and the continual focused enthusiasm of the Youth Cell, whose members are here, there and everywhere, are a sign that the baton is safely handed over to generation next which will be the torch bearers (Continued on pg - 3) VASHI VISION - Sacred Heart Church, Vashi December January-2015

2 Christmas Greetings The Parish Fathers pray God's abundant blessings on every parishioner on the occasion of the birth of our Lord Jesus and His love reign in our homes. A merry Christmas and a fruitful New Year 2017 Fr Gerry Fernandes Fr Baptist Viegas Share Your Community News, Articles and Suggestions Do share your news, views, stories, achievements, inspirations and activities in various Church Groups and Associations which can be shared with the larger family of this Sacred Heart Parish through this News Letter Vashi Vision (It will be great if you can provide the articles as soft copy if not hard copy is always welcome). - Articles & Pictures for printing in the future issues of Vashi Vision should reach the editorial team latest by 15th of every preceding month of the issue. (Maximum 400 words per article) - your views & articles and photographs & advertisements to vashivision@yahoo.co.in - For Advertising in Vashi Vision kindly contact the Church office. VASHI VISION Parish Bulletin of Sacred Heart Church Vashi, Navi Mumbai EDITORIAL TEAM Fr Gerald Fernandes, George Thomas, Dr Maureen Lobo, Rita Pinto, Kimberly Rowe, Peter Quadros DESIGN & LAYOUT Felix Rodrigues SEND ARTICLES FOR VASHI VISION TO vashivision@yahoo.co.in PUBLISHED BY Parish Priest, Sacred Heart Church, Plot No. 67, Sector - 9A, Vashi, Navi Mumbai Tel.: Church sacredheartchurchvashi@gmail.com Web-page: FB Page: PRINTED AT Ryan Enterprises 704 AB, Ram Laxman Tower, Near Mafco Market, Sector-18, Vashi, Navi Mumbai

3 (Continued from pg - 1) for the Church in the future. The future is, as ever, bright and glorious, and it beckons us with open arms. As the Parish Church readies to celebrate its Silver Jubilee year, the Parish Pastoral Council felt that it would be only fitting that, as a curtain raiser for the Silver Jubilee year of the Church, a documentary drama about the events that marked the history of the Parish is presented on Family Day January 8, The time machine will be ready to begin its journey on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at 0945 hours. This Family Day January 8, 2017 let our heartbeats speak with us of 'Getting to Know Each Other'; a beginning on our journey to building our Church into - John D'Souza, Sector-15 This sharing is to proclaim the steadfast love of God, to give Him glory and help readers build their trust in God. Though I constantly felt God's presence in my life and family, I seldom acknowledged it till my serious illness helped me realize my helplessness, the love of God and my family which I took for granted. I am a 67 year old Vashi parishioner, since 1988, with my ancestral home in Goa which I frequently visit. On my last trip in September, I fell seriously ill with high fever and unbearable body pain - MERWYN SEQUEIRA, Vice Chairman, PPC In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, if we need to see bold positive change, we need to be the bold change. When Fr. Gerry mooted the idea, the BCS & PPC collaborated to make the Peace Rally a success through the peaceful march and the display of banners on the various socioeconomic issues that our city and country faces such as a pollution free city, SWACHH BHARAT, a corruption free country, etc. The multi-lingual placards prepared by the Sacred Heart School teachers and the support of the school students were outstanding. Sr. Sharmila, Sr. Nitya and the teachers led the way with their enthusiasm and participation. The Sunday school teachers and students as well took part with a lot of zeal. Christmas - Yesterday... GOD'S LOVE PEACE RALLY 3 one Family. Let us go forward with the consciousness that 'the Child Jesus is born to unite all of humanity into one loving family'. This Christmas let each one of us roll back the magic carpet of time to the early days of the Parish, and be the first to greet fellow Parishioners; the Joy of Christmas. Let the winds of change whisper in our hearts, and the walls of apathy crumble as we gather around the manger. When we contemplate the serene countenance of the Child, let well-springs of love gush forth in torrents from our hearts and into the lives of all who we come in contact with. Christmas yesterday will become Christmas today and remain Christmas tomorrow. through the night. But after 3 days, my condition worsened and I was shifted to the ICU, of Fortis Hospital, and then on ventilator. The anointing of the sick and prayers of our Priests, Rev. Fr. Baptist and Rev. Fr. Gerry, family and friends helped me return home after 16 days in the hospital. I never thought that I would ever be seriously ill, but it was God's plan that this illness gave me a chance to realize how lucky I am to have such a loving wife and sons - Lloyd, Clyde and Neville who took turns to be with me and took good care of me. I find no words to express my happiness and I am indeed proud of my family. Thank you, Jesus. The rest of the parishioners, young and old, came in large numbers and I am sure all those who marched in silent procession participated because they subtly made the pledge in their minds to start living for a better tomorrow. It was a good beginning to awaken our conscience. We also express our thanks to our Deputy Mayor Avinash Lad for supplying us drinking water along the route, the traffic police, the planning team and all the volunteers. Can we ask for more from the BCS? Yes you can... The BCS Vashi unit is keen to make a difference and fulfill its mission 'To Create a Just Society through Involvement in Socio, Civic & Political Affairs'. We need you to join the BCS Vashi unit and be the change you want to see whilst witnessing Christ towards transforming community.

4 It isn't Xmas, but Christmas For that's the day Christ came When you take Christ out of Christmas You cross out life's best name. IT ISN'T X MAS, BUT CHRISTMAS I'll never try to shame my Lord I'll keep His name in place Then when life here below is over I'll see Him face to face. I wonder why they cross out Christ The best that God could give I wonder why they've forgotten That we for Him should live. Why take Christ's name out of Christmas? For He came to set us free If we had Christmas without Christ How hopeless we would be. Let us all, 'KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS' Love and serve Him this year It isn't Xmas but it's Christmas Ring it out, loud and clear. - LINA NORONHA, Sectors - 14/26 Why, is it - that they cross out Christ The greatest gift of all? Why, is it - that nobody cares Or listens to His call? To me - X stand for nothing Then why, cross His name out? To me - Christ means everything He took away my doubt. YOUNG MARRIED COUPLE S GET-TOGETHER Jennifer D'souza The problems and issues faced in the first few years of marriage are very different from the ones faced by those in their 15th-20th year of marriage. And this is what propelled the Family Cell to take the initiative to address us... young married couples who are married for 10 years and less. The 6 pm Eucharist on Sunday, 2nd October was celebrated for us married couples. As we walked down the aisle with our spouses, it felt as though we were reliving our wedding day. The renewal of our marriage vows, Fr Gerry's words of love and concern for us, marriage based-prayer intentions, Savio and Sylvia's short and sweet words of wisdom made the Eucharist meaningful. The celebration continued in the Conference room with as many over 20 couples attending it. There were many games that were organized along with spot prizes, that kept us involved and entertained. It was delightful to see each and every couple participating wholeheartedly in the games, sharing their experiences/appreciation for their spouses. We definitely lost track of time, but the mouthwatering snacks got us back on track. All in all a fun-filled evening... not too much, not too little... just the right measure! A big thank you to the Family cell and all the organizers who so willingly took on the task of bringing families together and giving us a platform to share and learn through each other. It's comforting to know that we are not alone in our vocation of marriage; our Church is always with us to help at every step! 4

5 AN INSPIRING EXPERIENCE WITH REALITY - CHITRA RODRIGO, Catechist It was a welcoming climate when we headed towards the Florin Home in Taloja where the little children were taken care of. A part of the offerings collected during the Nativity Novena were loaded in the bus. Sr. Nithya, Sr. Christal, our mentors, along with our fellow catechists Michael, Maria Tellis, Ivel Mathias, Roshal, and Jessica accompanied the children of the 7th, 8th and 9th standards from Sunday school. They did a commendable job after reaching there. Our Sunday school children mingled wonderfully with all the children at the home. Thanks to Ivel for conducting interesting games. It was a joyous occasion of mirth and laughter to see all the children together in groups where they got introduced to each other and shared their likes and dislikes it was perfect oneness. It is this sense of being together with the deprived that surpasses everything else in this world. We were also provided with refreshments by Fr. John Paul who takes care of the home. It ended on a thanking note and a prayer by Stephan and Gavin our Sunday school children, and finally with the blessings of Fr. John Paul. It was truly a life changing experience for me as a first time catechist. On our way back, I was struck with the thought that to be humane is the best quality that one can embody. God bless all the children in this world for they are the flowers who make this world bright, beautiful and fragrant with all their innocence. Thoughts shared by the enthusiastic participants of our Sunday school : Orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend they are not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do, everything changes. - Svetlana On Sunday 25th September we the students of 7th, 8th and 9th visited the orphanage in Taloja to distribute the offerings collected during the Nativity Novena. First the children introduced themselves to us and got acquainted with us quickly. Then we played a game with them. They showcased their talents during the game. After that they offered us some snacks and tea. Altogether it was a memorable experience. - Nathan Suares Amoris Laetitia Training Program for Navi Mumbai Deanery - Fabian Lobo On the 27th November 2016, the Family and Women's Commission of the Parish conducted a training program on Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love) in the conference room of the Church. Apart from representatives of the Parish Pastoral Council, Community Coordinators, Community Animators, Catechists, married couples and youth from our Parish, the program was attended by representatives from Our Lady of Presentation Church, Nerul. The training program began with a short inspiring prayer by Jennifer Soares. The training inputs were provided by Peter Quadros, Randolph Rowe and Dr. 5 Maureen Lobo who guided the participants through the two hours with deep insights and anecdotes. Amoris Laetitia, a Latin phrase that means The Joy of Love, is an Apostolic Exhortation by Pope Francis. The training succinctly but eloquently dealt with the rather complex subject in four parts the Vocation of the Family, Family Life as an Educational Setting, Remote Marriage Preparation and Accompanying Families. The audience was extremely interactive making the program lively and thereby enhancing knowledge transfer. The major take-away for the participants was the realization that no family drops from heaven perfectly formed; families need constantly to grow and mature in the ability to love. This is a never ending vocation.

6 - SHALINI DESA VACATION BIBLE JOY, November "Give unto others and God will give to you. And indeed you will receive a full measure" (Luke 6:38) The above was just one of the many beautiful verses from the Bible that our children were encouraged to understand and memorize at the Vacation Bible Joy programme from 9th November to 13th November '16, in which 65 enthusiastic children enrolled for. The theme was "I serve a God of Wonders" and focused on the miracles that Jesus worked. To encourage bonding and sharing, the children were grouped age wise into sub-juniors, juniors and seniors. There was always a great deal of enthusiasm as children scrambled to be the first to reach and earn the much coveted early bird chocolate each day. Every day the teachers and youth volunteers put in a lot of effort to make the morning assembly instructional as well as fun by teaching them a memory verse from the Bible, new action songs and video clips. Children learned to read Bible verses with joy and happily complete activities and fun assignments. They also eagerly awaited the snack break when they tucked into yummy snacks sponsored by generous donors. - TRISHA SERRAO, Sector 6 Parents were invited to the grand finale where teachers and volunteers' inaugurated the session with a graceful prayer dance. The children exhibited their artwork themed on the miracles performed by Jesus. We were entertained with dances and insightful skits. The biggest surprise was the foot tapping performance by a budding boy band from our Parish. All in all it was a week that was well invested in increasing the faith of our children. May God bless, abundantly and in full measure, all those who gave of their time, talent and treasure to make the VBJ a truly vibrant experience! NAVI MUMBAI DEANERY YOUTH DAY 2016 The Youth from 12 Parishes in Navi Mumbai geared up to participate actively in a day-long Deanery Youth Day 2016 held on Sunday, 28th August 2016 at Christ Academy, Koperkhairne. The day commenced with the Eucharist celebrated by Fr Baptist Viegas, followed by an inspirational talk on the theme 'COM-PASSION-ATE' by Deacon Ivan Fernandes. Every Parish presented a musical skit, dance or band performance which conveyed an 'Act of Mercy' being the Jubilee Year of Mercy, or a 'Passion' close to - SAMHIT DABRAL, Sector 1 their hearts. During the intervals, there were hilarious gags and filler acts performed by the hosts to entertain the gathering of over 300 Youth. It also included fun-filled activities with spot prizes for the winners. Post a sumptuous buffet lunch, the energetic day concluded with an equally energetic DJ session of Jive numbers, Bollywood songs, etc. We returned home with our minds refreshed and hearts filled with the message of being Compassionate. Indeed, the Navi Mumbai Deanery Youth Day 2016 was a day of fun, laughter and friendships! SACRED HEART YOUTH CAMP 2016 The Youth Camp held on 30th and 31st October 2016 at RC Church, Khandala was a fun-filled experience with many life lessons to learn. With a number of team building sessions, activities and games throughout the day, the enjoyment level was at an all time high with its own share of hilarious and entertaining moments. This led to the beginning of new friendships and interactions among the youth. The campfire and music-dance session only added to the 6 - More photos on back cover beauty of togetherness. The following morning was spent in meaningful spirituality and reflection at the Rosary Garden. Praying the rosary in the presence of nature was beautiful and inspiring. The feedback session ensured everyone shared memories to be remembered for a lifetime. The Eucharist celebrated by Fr Baptist, had a message for each of us to take home a message of contributing our time and talents to the Church in union with one another. - Youth articles photos on back inside cover

7 St Paul's Community visits the House of Charity, Versova - MAGGIE SEBASTIAN, Sector - 29 The dawn of Saturday, November 5, 2016 marked the beginning of a journey by 21 members of the Community of St. Paul to the House of Charity, Versova. Ubaldine Rodrigues led the Group in a prayer inviting Jesus to accompany the Group. On reaching the House, the Group was greeted by Sister Valencia who briefed them about the House. The House of Charity shelters 25 mentally and physically challenged people. There are 6 sisters who are responsible for their well-being. The empathy and compassion with which they were caring for the residents of the House was quite amazing. Having requested the Group not to ask any personal or intrusive questions, we were invited to meet, greet and interact with the residents. The House of Charity is also visited by students and lay persons - active ST. PAUL'S COMMUNITY CELEBRATES NOVEM JOVAN On the evening of Friday, September 30, 2016, the Animators of St. Paul's Community of Sectors 11, 12, 28 and 29 celebrated Novem Jovan, the harvest time festival, at the residence of Geeta and Michael Saldanha. The evening began with an impromptu but highly entertaining game of dumb charade based on the names of Hindi films including Howrah Bridge Pe Ulti Latki Laash. All Animators including those who knew zero about Hindi films and those who could not act to save their lives participated with verve and happiness. The atmosphere of bon homie was replete with gentle legpulling and exchange of laughter over memories of volunteers in sharing the workload of the sisters and bringing a sense of joy in sharing their time for such a noble cause. The sights that our community members witnessed in terms of the joy of sharing and caring were indeed heartwarming. We spent a value-filled two hours of time interacting and having wonderfully inspiring conversations with the residents, giving and receiving affection. We realised that the residents may be physically and mentally challenged and limited in medical terms, but they were overflowing with love and affection. As the visit slowly drew to a close, we asked for immense blessings from the Lord for the residents and all their devoted caretakers. You can contact the House of Charity for visits, volunteering services or for making a donation at Yari Road, Near Our Lady of Health Church, Versova, Andheri (West), Mumbai Telephone No hocmumbai@gmail.com events of the near and distant past. Close to midnight, the Animators said a short prayer and the 'Grace before Meals'. Then the plantain leaves were spread out on the floor, and the Animators gratefully began the repast of rice, dal, cabbage, chhole, laccha parathas, avial, mixed vegetables, paneer curry, chauli bhaji, drumsticks bhaji, cake, voran, ice-cream, and China grass. The Novem Jovan menu was a team effort by all the participants and contributed to strengthening bonds and team spirit. It was certainly an evening to remember for all the Animators. 7

8 - KATHRYN M. GOMES - Sector 6 The feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of Sector 6, Vashi was on October 4th. It was celebrated on October 8th being a Saturday. After the evening Mass the members of the community gathered in the Conference room for celebration and fellowship. A record gathering of 73 assembled. A quantum jump over the previous years as people came together to meet and greet. Reminiscing the S.C.C. took off from Sector 6 and then gradually spread to the neighboring sectors. The Sector was then vibrant full of youngsters. For any occasion, be it welcoming parties, farewell parties, this sector was called upon to provide the music and song and even skits. It catalyzed activities in the A GRAND MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA MARY, DID YOU KNOW? - GEORGE THOMAS Sacred Heart Church parishioners were treated to a grand musical extravaganza Mary, did you know? on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December in the church after the evening Eucharistic celebration. All those who witnessed the program took off to dizzy heights with the salvation story meticulously executed by 101 participants with about 30 back stage assistants manning other functions, such as dance choreography, sound, lighting, video, projection, and support group. The musical gave a firsthand view of people of all walks of life who had questions about the salvation history which was addressed through the musical. Fr Gerry set about planning this mega venture from June 2016 ably assisted by the Director, Jennifer Francis and back stage support of Fr Baptist. The total commitment and sincerity of the Youth, the Sunday school Catechists and the children, the candidates for confirmation and the choir were clearly visible with the synergy and synchronized participation. It is indeed incredible to get the act together with such a large contingent of performers of varying age groups. We are proud to have such an enormous talent pool in our parish community. Fr Gerry concluded by stating that in an age where we depended more and only on mobile apps, we were missing out on our rich cultural heritage which includes music, sing song, dramatics, etc. Alas, in case we did not stem this, sooner than later, music and cultural art could be a thing of the past. We are so fortunate to be part of the parish family where traditions have been safeguarded and propagated through such programs. Though the church was packed to capacity on both the days, there is a tinge of sadness that more parishioners could have A HAPPENING 8 neighboring sectors. With the expected exodus to greener pastures abroad, there was a downslide. We are working for an upswing. The evening got off with a bang. Old faces were missing but many new ones were seen and welcomed. The new members expressed that they were amazed at the comradeship and gay camaraderie. There was sing-song, games and, delectable food. A senior citizen spoke of the past beginnings of the S.C.C. and a younger lady - of the present happenings and a hopeful future. At the end we sang the Hymn of St. Francis Make Me a Channel of Your Peace. After a Vote Of Thanks, the assemblage departed looking forward to another get-together. benefitted. I would like to single out the Sunday school Catechists who ensured to involve every child of the Sunday school including tiny tots. One cannot comprehend the travails they endured getting the little ones to practice together day after day. As Parishioners we could motivate them by being there when they performed. The reaction of all those who witnessed the musical was overwhelming. The take-away from this program was that the Christmas mood was ignited and the opportunity to relive the life of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you, Rev Frs Gerry and Baptist for rejuvenating the Parish from time to time with Christ Centred community building programs, while also thanking the entire team for giving of their time and talent.

9 VASHI VISION - Sacred Heart Church, Vashi 9 December January 2017

10 COLACO DELICACIES Homemade, rich, buttery & yummy plum cake, coconut cake, carrot cake, rum cake, walnut/ dates cake and many more varieties for any occasion. Contact Mrs. Maria Colaco: Contact Mrs. Usha Renake: STYLISH SEAMS by Melissa Dressmaking, alterations, styling or restyling anything outdated for children & women of all ages. Contact Mrs. Melissa Renake: FRUIT & VEGETABLE CARVING CLASSES Learn how to create beautiful & appealing centerpieces from fruits and vegetables with carving tools also available on sale for purchase. WE TAKE NO ADVANCE F The Official Undertakers & Funeral Directors for all faiths. F We supply all types of coffins (regular, polished and polished floral coffins), brand new hearse, ambulance, imported lowering device, church truck (coffin stand), wooden cross, gloves and socks, floral tributes, rosary beads, etc. F Dispatch of mortal remains within the country and abroad. F We also supply Portable Refrigerator Coffins, a very compact piece, which can be kept at home using regular power-supply. F We understand your need to spend as much time with your loved one in these last moments and hence ther is no need to visit the shop. F We are just a call away. F All arrangements will be made through that one call. K.A.S. Homes, Survey No. 0495, Shop No.3, Juhu Village, Sector 11, Besides C.I.S.F. Quarters Vashi, Navi Mumbai F We have a very professional and considerate team to assist you in all your requirements. Mr. Bellar Britto , Mr. Ludgar Britto , Mrs. Anita Britto , Mr. Kailash Gutale brittoundertakers@gmail.com 10

11 NAVI MUMBAI DEANERY YOUTH DAY SACRED HEART YOUTH CAMP VASHI VISION - Sacred Heart Church, Vashi 11 December January 2017

12 VACATION BIBLE JOY - NOVEMBER