By Melita Rodrigues Rego for BIS Mumbai

On September 8, 2026, the community of Don Bosco Centre for Learning, Kurla gathered at Mondini Hall at 12 noon for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist in honour of the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Nearly 300 students from across the various institutions on campus, particularly Don Bosco College, joined the celebration of the Eucharist.

The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr Nelson Carvalho, the Campus Administrator. The liturgy was meaningfully animated by the Department of Accounting and Finance. The choir sang with great devotion, filling the hall with a spirit of prayerful reverence. Ms Jenny Durando, a TYBMS student who conducted the choir remarked, “The choir had the opportunity to make the celebration more prayerful through the hymns, and it was really special to see everyone come together and participate so wholeheartedly.”

In his homily, Fr Carvalho reflected on the significance of Mother Mary's role in the life and ministry of Jesus, and by extension, in the lives of every Christian. He reminded the gathering that just as Mary's "yes" made her the vessel through which Christ entered the world, her example continues to guide and inspire believers to live lives of faith, humility, and service. The homily was deeply appreciated by all present for its clarity and spiritual depth. Ms Frizzel Fernandes, a student of TYBAF expressed, “The Mass felt like sharing one prayer, one faith, and one heart. In the presence of Mama Mary, there was a quiet peace that stayed with us, reminding us of the beauty of faith and togetherness.”

During the Eucharist, the Don Bosco Centre for Learning community prayed for all those afflicted by natural calamities around the world, particularly the people of Nepal. Since the feast of the Nativity of Mary is also observed as Girl Child Day in the church, special prayers were offered for their safety, dignity, education, and empowerment — echoing Mary's own witness as a woman chosen for a divine purpose.

The celebration of the Holy Eucharist is a monthly feature of the campus that brings together all the Catholics on campus and serves as forum for faith formation and expression. It is a hallmark of the vibrant practice of faith of the student community reflecting their devotion and ardour in following the Salesian spirit of holiness.