by Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

The jubilee celebrations of Mary Help of Christians Parish, Naigaon East, Mumbai, Maharashtra, commenced with an exciting array of activities and competitions, bringing the entire parish community together in a spirit of joy and unity. As the parish marked its 25th anniversary on January 11, 2025, the evening gathering beautifully reflected the parish’s enduring commitment to faith, service, and spiritual growth.

Officially inaugurated by Bishop Thomas Dabre, on October 3, 1999, the Parish of Mary Help of Christians is a vibrant and joyful community, consisting of 750 families organized into 13 zones. It features several dynamic groups, including a well-structured Parish Pastoral Council, the Salesian Youth Group, Salesian Cooperators, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, and the Altar Servers Group.

The celebration began with the Holy Eucharist, themed “Rooted in Christ,” celebrated by the Fr William Falcao, and concelebrated by Rector, Fr Dominic Martis, Fr Edward D’Souza, Fr Anthony Fonseca along with former parish priests Fr Francis Fernandes and Fr Vivian D’Souza, and Deacon Noel Pinto. 

Following the Holy Mass, the celebration continued with an exquisite dinner and an evening brimming with excitement and entertainment. The live band – ‘Simply the Best’, led by Amon Daniels and his group, along with vibrant singing and dance performances from various parish groups, truly brought the evening to life.

The Rector, Fr Dominic Martis, warmly welcomed the parishioners to the festivities. In his address during the parish's Jubilee celebration, Fr Dominic expressed heartfelt gratitude to the parishioners for their unwavering faith and dedication over the years. He acknowledged the remarkable journey of the parish, which has grown from a humble beginning to a thriving community. He also reflected on the church's mission of love, service, and spiritual growth, emphasizing that the Jubilee not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the foundation for a future filled with continued faith and unity. His words resonated deeply with the congregation, inspiring them to remain committed to the mission of the parish as it enters the next chapter of its journey.

Mr Julius Carvalho, one of the first members of the Parish Pastoral Council, raised a heartfelt toast, sharing how the parish began with just one family in 1994 and has now grown into a thriving community with over 750 families.

As Mary Help of Christians Parish looks ahead to the future, the 25th anniversary celebration was a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, community, and service. The evening not only honoured the church’s journey but also set the stage for the continued growth of the parish as it embarks on its next chapter. With its legacy of spiritual enrichment and service, the parish is poised to continue touching lives and fostering faith for the next quarter-century.