By Mr Lionel D’Souza for BISMumbai

The solemnity of Christ the Universal King was celebrated in the parish of St Dominic Savio, Wadala East, on 20 November 2022.

After the 9.15 a.m. Eucharist, the Blessed Sacrament was enthroned on the altar, and adoration was held and animated by different communities, beginning with the Sunday School children and teachers. The choir added to the prayerful atmosphere and solemnity with their wonderful voices and music for the adoration. Thereafter, until 3.15 p.m., there were group-wise adorations in the church.

At 4.30 pm, the priests and the parishioners assembled in the church compound. Fr John Baptist, after reading the gospel passage, gave a very meaningful sermon in Tamil. Fr Gregory D’Cunha read the Gospel in Marathi and followed it up with a thought-provoking message in Marathi. After this, the gathering readied themselves for the procession.

The procession began from the church compound and was well organised as different communities and parishioners walked in the procession. Hymns in English and regional languages were sung, so that the non-Christians along the way could be familiarised with the message of Christ, the Universal King. Hymns were sung and placards were held high. At two spots along the route, local ladies did graceful aartis before the Blessed Sacrament.

In the Eucress compound, in a well-prepared environment, the Blessed Sacrament was welcomed by the choir and enthroned on a high altar. Fr Rudolf D’Souza read the Gospel in English and followed it up with a good reflection on the idea of Christ as a Shepherd-King. The parish priest, Fr Kenneth Pereira, then gave his message in Konkani to the faithful. The programme ended with the Blessed Sacrament being lifted and blessings bestowed to the faithful present.

An event of this magnitude would never have been possible without the collaboration of diverse groups and associations of the parish. Special thanks are owed to the Bombay Catholic Sabha for obtaining civic permissions and to every group that chipped in to do their bit in honouring Jesus, King of the Universe.