by Father Renold Lemos for BISMumbai

Every year, the parish of St. John Bosco Borivali organizes the Mission Fete with a variety of activities on the school grounds. Taking into account the prevailing pandemic, it seemed that all hope was lost. However, with the opening of the churches for the faithful, the lost hope was regained and with a lot of enthusiasm, the parishioners began to plan for the celebration of the Mission Sunday on 24 October 2021. The responsibility of organizing the event was taken up by PPC (Parish Pastoral Council) members.

The organizing team for the mission fete was headed by Martin D’Souza, who devised a plan along with the other members of the team. With many deliberations, it was decided to celebrate this Mission Sunday grandly. On 24 October 2021 at 7:45 am, Father Solomon Rapol- Rector and Parish Priest of St. John Bosco Church Borivali inaugurated the Mission Fete event with a prayer. The fete was comprised of several entertaining games and events.The participants relished the food items prepared by various zones of the parish. There was also a provision made for food that was ordered online. The parishioners, young and old actively participated in the games as well as danced on the Bollywood numbers. The winners of various events were awarded with attractive prizes. The lucky draw coupons were sold in advance and the prizes for the same included a bicycle, Smart watch, mixer,dinner set, induction heater, etc. The karaoke singing added colour to the event. The occasion was graced by Bishop Barthol Barretto-Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay. He expressed his joy saying- “Indeed the parishioners of St. John Bosco Church Borivali are committed to carrying on the mission of Christ, however difficult the situation may be.”

A carefully devised plan, hard-working volunteers, and excellent execution ensured the smooth functioning of the event. All in all, the event was a massive success and appreciated by all. The collection received from this event will be utilized to assist the financial, medical and educational needs of the poor families in the parish.

The fears of people staying away from the church have been unfounded, as the crowd that attended the event was more than expected. The event enabled people to meet one another after a long time. With the resounding success of this event, the parishioners of St. John Bosco Church Borivali are hoping to keep the positive vibes ever alive and active.