By Ms Julian John for BIS Mumbai

 August 9, 2026, Nashik: Vianney Sunday, also known as Priest's Sunday, is usually held on the Sunday closest to the feast day of John Marie Vianney, which falls on August 4. It's a special occasion observed in honour of St. John Marie Vianney, the patron Saint of parish priests.

 Jean-Baptiste Marie Vianney was born on May 8, 1786, in Dardilly, France, during one of the most turbulent periods of French religious history. The French Revolution had suppressed the Catholic Church and practicing the faith openly was dangerous. Marie Vianney's path to priesthood was marked with trials and struggles and he was eventually ordained in 1815. He died on August 4, 1859. Pope Pius X beatified him in 1905 and Pope Pius XI canonized him on May 31, 1925. In 1929, Pope Pius XI named him the patron saint of parish priests - a title that reflects the extraordinary example he set for ordinary pastoral ministry.

 Vianney Sunday at Don Bosco Parish, Nashik was celebrated on August 9, the Sunday following the feast of St John Vianney. The celebration commenced with the Eucharist presided over by Fr John Sequeira ofm cap, the Provincial of Mangalore and Karnataka Dominican province, with Frs. Wyman Gonsalves & Leon Rodrigues as concelebrants.

 Fr. Wyman, the parish priest delivered a deeply inspiring homily on the life & vocation of St. John Vianney. He reflected on the saint's struggles in his journey to priesthood, particularly his academic difficulties, resulting from the lack of education caused by poverty. His mentor, Abbé Balley recognized his profound piety and pastoral dedication and he supported young John's ordination.

 The congregation listened with rapt attention as the homily offered a powerful reminder that God's call transcends human limitations.

 The Eucharistic celebration concluded with Fr. John encouraging parishioners to welcome and cherish their priests as family members of their own family.

 A brief program followed, organized by parish youth as a gesture of gratitude to the priests. Catechism children presented handmade greeting cards to the priests, while various parish groups expressed their gratitude and affection through tokens of love.

 The celebration concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by a PPC member, Mrs Vanessa Almeida and Fr Wyman's words of appreciation for the parish community's warmth and generosity towards its priests.