By Mr Mario Borges for BIS Mumbai

On August 10, 2025, Resurrection Church in Virar East marked a significant milestone, celebrating its Silver Jubilee with grandeur, steadfast faith, unwavering community spirit, service and heartfelt devotion. The church has been a cornerstone of the local community, fostering spiritual growth and unity among its parishioners.

The celebration commenced at 8 a.m. with a special mass, led by Fr Savio Silveira, the Provincial of Mumbai along with Fr Thomas D'costa, the Parish Priest. Before the mass, a flag hoisting ceremony was held along with a Silver Jubilee prayer symbolizing the church's enduring presence and contribution to the community. The youth and the Catechism students wore white jerseys with a logo on it as a symbol of the fraternity, gratitude and love towards the parish.

During his sermon, the Provincial reflected on the church's journey and the countless blessings received throughout the years even during the hard times of Covid-19. He also mentioned that to become good Christians, we need to be faithful servants and for this, the three ways we need to follow are attachment to the Church, love in our families and showing concern to the poor. The Mass was attended by a multitude of parishioners, who filled the church with their prayers and songs.

A short introduction about Fr Provincial was given by Fr D'costa. The youth felicitated him with a silver rose, silver jersey and a bouquet of colourful flowers as a token of love and gratitude. Mr Alex, one of the parishioners, spoke few words of gratitude and appreciation about Fr Provincial's great service towards the Christ’s mission.

Later, the gratitude tree was installed near the altar which will be kept from this day until September 8, 2025, the feast day of our Blessed Mother, as a display of gratitude for the choicest blessings each one has received throughout their entire journey of life. The Salesian Co-operators later held indoor and outdoor sports for the youth and the children of our parish.

The Silver Jubilee of Resurrection Church was not just a celebration of the past; it was a reaffirmation of faith, community, and the collective commitment to building a better future. With a spirit of gratitude and hope, parishioners reflected on the journey so far while looking forward to the next chapter in their mission of service and discipleship.

Resurrection Church looks forward to the next 25 years with a spirit of faith, fellowship, and service which remains at the heart of its mission. The celebration served as a beautiful reminder of the church's role in nurturing hope and community in Virar East.

"As the sun sets on this memorable day, the church continues to stand as a testament to resilience, love, and the power of faith, welcoming all who seek its embrace for many years to come.”