By Mrs Lydia Rodrigues and Mr Nitin Pawar for BISMumbai

The youth of St Dominic Savio parish, Wadala East, celebrated Diwali on 13 November 2023. The theme, ‘Christ the Light’, helped to put the event in perspective. 

The programme began with a Eucharistic celebration at 6:30 in the evening. It was a beautiful sight as the youth entered in a procession and lit numerous lamps along with the celebrants, Fr Bastin Thomas and Fr Kenneth Pereira. During the Eucharistic celebration, the choir captured the essence of the festival by singing apt hymns in English, Marathi, and Hindi.  The celebration brought into focus the cross-cultural richness of the parish.

Following the Eucharist, the people gathered in the parish hall for the Dhamaka programme. The hall and the church compound were adorned with festive decorations, reflecting the spirit of Diwali.  

Around 200 people, including children, youth and adults, attended the event. It featured various games and activities, like a rangoli competition and fireworks, that brought excitement to all who had turned up. The people were divided into groups for team games in which they showcased their artistic skills and alertness. The games were designed to test creativity and teamwork, ensuring that everyone had a chance to participate and have fun. The winners of the games were rewarded with prizes. Spot prizes added an element of surprise and thrill to the event. In between the games, everyone enjoyed snacks and refreshments.  

 The Diwali Dhamaka was a grand success, thanks to Fr Bastin’s guidance and the hard work and dedication of the youth committees and volunteers. The event brought them together and reminded them of the significance of the light and hope that Christ brings to our lives. 

Just before schools and institutions in the Province commenced their Diwali break, they organised a prayer service drawing inspiration from this great festival of lights.

On 4 November, the staff and students of Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik, gleamed with joy as the institution held a Diwali prayer service.  The institution embraced the spirit of giving by presenting gifts to the boys of the Shelter Don Bosco. 

Fr Rudolf D’Souza, Director of Shelter Don Bosco, took the opportunity to address the students, extending warm Diwali wishes. He highlighted the essence of Diwali as a triumph of light over darkness and goodness over evil. Fr D’Souza encouraged the students to make the most of their Diwali holidays by spreading kindness, learning new things, strengthening family and friend connections, and prioritising eco-friendly practices.