By Fr Gregory D’Almeida sdb for BIS Mumbai

Resurrection Church, Virar East, celebrated the feast of St John Mary Vianney, the Patron Saint of Priests, with deep faith, gratitude and enthusiastic participation from parishioners on Sunday, August 2. The day-long celebrations brought together priests, religious, youth, children and families in thanksgiving for the gift of the priesthood.

The celebration began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at 8 a.m., which was prayerfully animated by the parish youth. Through meaningful liturgical participation, hymns and reflections, the youth highlighted the exemplary life of St John Mary Vianney, renowned for his holiness, humility, tireless ministry in the confessional and pastoral care for his people. The celebration also served as an occasion to pray in a special way for all priests and for an increase in priestly vocations.

A major highlight of the day was the inauguration of DB AVSAR, the Career Guidance and Job Placement Cell of the parish. The initiative aims to assist young people in making informed career choices, developing employable skills and securing suitable employment opportunities. The new centre reflects the parish's commitment to the holistic development and empowerment of the youth.

Following the Holy Mass, the Resurrection Youth, together with the Sunday School teachers and children, presented a colourful cultural programme celebrating the life and virtues of St John Mary Vianney. The programme was marked by inspiring performances and expressions of gratitude towards the priests serving the parish. Children and various parish associations felicitated the priests with special gifts as a token of appreciation for their dedicated pastoral ministry and selfless service.

Addressing the gathering, Fr Thomas expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the youth and all those who had worked tirelessly to organise the celebration. He encouraged the faithful to continue praying for priests, asking God to bless them with fidelity to their vocation, compassion for God's people, courage in proclaiming the Gospel and joy in their ministry.

The celebrations concluded with a friendly football match organised by the parish youth, fostering fellowship and community spirit, followed by a fellowship lunch sponsored by the Parish Pastoral Council members. The feast was a joyful celebration of faith and communion, leaving the parish inspired by the witness of St John Mary Vianney and renewed in its commitment to support priests through prayer and collaboration.