By Joyce Dmello for BIS Mumbai

On May 31, 2026, the Feast of the Holy Trinity, we, the parishioners of St. John Bosco Church, Borivali witnessed a solemn blessing ceremony of the newly renovated sanctuary. It all began months earlier, when our Parish Priest, Fr. Manuel Murzello, announced the renovation plan. With careful preparation, generous contribution from parishioners, and tireless efforts of all priests and parishioners, the vision took shape, ensuring that the sacredness of the Church remained untouched even as its structure was renewed.

Every corner of the church invites the faithful to pause and admire. Enhanced lighting gives a gentle glow and HVLS fans ensure comfort. Freshly painted walls and polished benches reflect care; the Holy Cross and the statues stand as silent witnesses of faith and newly built confession box adds privacy to the sacrament of reconciliation, thus transforming the holy place and enriching the experience of worship.

The solemnity of the occasion was graced by the presence of our main celebrant, Bishop Dominic Savio Fernandes, whose words and blessings consecrated the renewed sanctuary. Joining him was Fr. Ashley Miranda, Provincial, Mumbai Province, along with a distinguished gathering of priests: Fr. Alyosius Furtado, Fr. Mario Vaz, Fr. Manuel Murzello, Fr. Vishal Lopez, Fr. Ranson Dsouza, Fr. Roshan Gonsalves, Fr. Donald Fernandes, and Dean Fr. Nelson Saldhana. Their collective presence symbolized unity, fraternity, and the shared joy of the parish community in this momentous occasion.

The ceremony began with a graceful classical dance by young parish girls dressed in vibrant sarees. Offering a Hindi hymn of praise and thanksgiving, they set a prayerful tone for the celebration. They then led the procession of altar servers, liturgy ministers, priests, Dean, Provincial, and Bishop into the church.

The holy mass began with Bishop Dominic Savio’s profound words: “In the holy church of God, may peace be with all.” This powerful message ushered in the prayers of the liturgy, invoking divine grace upon the congregation. His Lordship along with other priests, sprinkled holy water upon the altar, every corner of the renewed church and upon parishioners. The fair linen altar cloth was then placed upon the altar, symbolizing purity and virtue. As this ritual unfolded, the choir gracefully sang the hymn “Spirit of God in the clear running waters…”

Being the Feast of the Holy Trinity, Bishop Dominic Savio in his homily focused on the mystery of the Trinity by saying, “Our God is one in three persons; the Trinity is a model for family, and the mystery of the Trinity is the mystery of love.”

With gratitude and joy, the congregation felicitated and honoured Bishop Dominic Savio, Fr. Ashley Miranda, Fr. Nelson Saldhana, and Fr. Roshan Gonsalves. In addition, Fr. Vishal Lopez extended special recognition to many parishioners whose contribution made the renovation possible.

Later, Bishop Dominic Savio officially declared June 2026 to May 2027 as the “Year of Small Christian Community.” In a symbolic gesture, he unveiled the scroll and booklet, inviting the faithful to embrace this vision. The ceremony concluded with thanksgiving to God and reciting the hymn “Long Live Don Bosco.” Parishioners then gathered for refreshments, sharing both spiritual and social joy.

The renewed church today stands not only as a result of structural restoration but also as a preservation of heritage for future generations. With heartfelt gratitude, we thank Bishop Dominic Savio Fernandes, Fr. Ashley Miranda and Fr. Nelson Saldhana, for gracing and blessing our church. A special thanks to Fr. Manuel Murzello, the team of priests, and all parishioners whose dedication, and perseverance made this beautiful renewal possible.