By Mr Mario Borges for BIS Mumbai

On the morning of July 12, 2026, Resurrection Church in Virar East was filled with joy and excitement as the community gathered for the 8 a.m. Mass. This special day was dedicated to celebrating the hard work of students who had just completed their studies in Standard X and XII. The Saint Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) took this opportunity to honor these young achievers, making it a memorable occasion for everyone involved. After the Mass, the SVP members took the stage to recognize the students who had passed their exams. This recognition was a proud moment for the students, their families, and the entire church community.

 Fr Gregory D’Almeida, the Sunday School Director, addressed the parents and children during the Sunday School Open House. He spoke about the importance of attending Sunday School regularly. Fr D’Almeida encouraged families to make it a priority to bring their children to Sunday School, as it plays a vital role in their spiritual growth. He expressed gratitude to the Catechism teachers and parents for their support and involvement, reminding everyone that a strong foundation in faith can positively impact their lives.

 Children who attended the Rosary Service during the month of May were also felicitated. The smiles on the children’s faces as they received their prizes reflected their joy and commitment to their spiritual journey. In addition to recognizing the Rosary participants, the church honored the top five altar servers. These young individuals have shown exceptional dedication and service to the church, assisting during Mass and other church activities. Their hard work was acknowledged with special prizes, inspiring other children to consider serving in this important role.

 The ceremony also included the distribution of trophies and certificates based on Sunday School attendance. This recognition aimed to motivate children to participate actively in their spiritual education. As the event unfolded, the sense of community was evident. Families gathered to celebrate their children’s achievements, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere. The event served as a reminder of the importance of faith, education, and community involvement in the lives of the parishioners.

 The morning concluded with a heartfelt prayer, asking for blessings upon the students as they continue their journeys in education and faith. As the congregation left the church, there was a renewed sense of hope and inspiration in the air. The recognition of academic achievements, the encouragement of regular participation in Sunday School, and the celebration of prayer and service all contributed to a meaningful morning at Resurrection Church.

 During Sunday School Teachers Oath Taking Ceremony, teachers took an oath to uphold their responsibilities with dedication, love, and integrity. Families and church members were gathered to support the teachers, celebrating their important role in shaping the next generation's faith and values.

 This event not only honored the students but also reinforced the church’s commitment to nurturing a strong, faith-filled community for years to come.