by Angela Saby and Cl. Jittin Mathew for BIS Mumbai

On October 12, 2024, the youth of Sacred Heart Parish, Yerwada, hosted a warm and joyful event honoring their cherished senior citizens as part of the golden jubilee celebrations. From 11 AM to 1 PM, the gathering aimed to strengthen community bonds and uplift the spirits of all senior members, reminding everyone that they are truly one big family in faith.

The day began with a bilingual mass, thoughtfully designed for the elderly. Led by the enthusiastic youth, the liturgy and choir created a welcoming atmosphere that invited seniors to engage fully in worship.

The Main celebrant was Fr William Britto SJ, Canon Law Professor in Jnana Deepa. As Scripture reminds us, “The elderly shall be honored and respected” (Leviticus 19:32), and the youth worked hard to ensure their elders felt that love and appreciation throughout the service.

After the mass, everyone gathered at 11:45 am on the church grounds, where around 40 seniors enjoyed a variety of fun activities. The program kicked off with a warm welcome, followed by an uplifting action song dance to “Yes Lord.” This lively performance encouraged participation, filling the air with laughter and joy, creating a true sense of celebration.

To further engage the seniors, a playful celebrity guessing game was introduced, bringing smiles and laughter all around. One participant, Joanne, captured the spirit of the day, saying, “Family is not an important thing; it’s everything,” reflecting the deep connections shared among all present.

During the snack break, seniors mingled with each other and the youth, sharing stories, laughter, and creating lasting memories. Joanne also expressed her heartfelt appreciation, saying, “I’m so grateful for this gathering. It reminds us that we’re all part of a loving community.” Her words resonated deeply, emphasizing the warmth and togetherness that define their parish family.

This golden jubilee celebration was more than just an event; it was a beautiful opportunity for seniors to feel honored and for the values of unity and love to shine brightly within their community. Youth President Jerryco shared, “Our mission was simple—to create a space where our senior members feel comfortable, listened to, and cared for, just like they are part of our own family.”

The youth were praised for their hard work and heartfelt dedication, and there was shared excitement for more gatherings that celebrate their elders and bring everyone closer together as a family at Sacred Heart Parish.