by  Sr Sandra Fernandes FMA

The Parents and Grandparents Day celebration that took place on 21st July 2024 at Our Lady of Dolour’s Church, Wadala West, was a vibrant and heartfelt event. Preparation began two weeks prior, driven by the enthusiasm of catechists and children. The celebration kicked off with a children's Mass at 9:15 a.m., led by Fr Solomon Rapol, where prayers and blessings were offered for parents and grandparents. Following the Mass, attendees moved to St. Joseph’s School hall for the main program, featuring key guests including Fr Solomon Rapol, Fr Nicholas Arul, Fr Bonny Borges, and Mr and Mrs Fonseca.

The event began with a lamp-lighting ceremony symbolizing the Divine presence, followed by a graceful dance by the younger children to the song "You Raise Me Up." Fr Nicholas Arul welcomed the audience, emphasizing the importance of appreciating the talents and sacrifices of both children and parents. He praised the catechists for their dedication despite their busy schedules. Fr. Nicholas also introduced Fr Rapol, highlighting his wisdom, generosity, and embodiment of gospel values. He also introduced the guests of honour Mr & Mrs Fonseca, highlighting their God Centered Life and their involvement in the Church activities. 

The celebration continued with performances by students of various grades. Each performance was an expression of Love and gratitude conveying a powerful message about the importance of family love and respect. Other performances included heartfelt dances expressing gratitude and love.

In his address, Fr. Rapol shared life wisdom and encouraged the young to respect their elders, stressing the significant impact parents and grandparents have in one’s life. He shared personal anecdotes, underscoring the crucial role of parenting in nurturing children with dignity and love. Quoting Psalm 92 and Pope Francis, he reminded everyone of the blessings and responsibilities in family life.

Mrs Maria Goretti Fonseca, one of the guests of honor, shared her personal story, highlighting the enduring impact of her parents' wisdom and guidance. She urged the audience to love and respect their parents, leaving a resonant message for all present.

The event concluded with Sir Lloyd’s vote of thanks, appreciating the efforts of the Parish Team and the catechists. The celebration’s success was affirmed through interviews with parents and a grandparent, who expressed heartfelt appreciation for the program’s meaningful content and its emphasis on family values. The celebration was a beautiful reflection of the love between generations, making it a memorable day for all attendees.