By Alphonsa Ohol for BIS Mumbai

The Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was celebrated with great joy and devotion at Sacred Heart Parish, Yerwada, on September 8, 2026 at 6 p.m. during the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration. The feast was also observed as Girl Child Day, highlighting the dignity, value and protection of every girl child.

The Solemn Eucharist was presided over by Fr Johnson Gonsalves, MSFS, Provincial of the Missionaries of St Francis de Sales. He was joined by the concelebrants, Fr Michael Fernandes SDB, Parish Priest; Fr Crispino D’Souza, the Rector; Fr Glen Fernandes SDB, Principal of Don Bosco High School; Fr James Nigrel, Administrator; and Fr Gregory D’Cunha, Assistant Parish Priest.

The celebration commenced with a beautiful procession in which little girls dressed as Mother Mary joyfully participated. A graceful dance performance by the students of Don Bosco School added colour and reverence to the occasion. The feast was preceded by a nine-day novena from August 30 to September 7, during which priests from various parishes reflected on the theme, “Mary, Mother of Hope, Guiding Us in the Digital World.”

In his homily, Fr Gonsalves reflected on Mary’s complete openness to God’s will. Her willingness to accept God’s plan teaches us the virtues of trust, obedience and surrender. In a world increasingly influenced by technology and digital media, Mary remains a guiding example, reminding us to place our trust in God and to use the gifts of the modern world wisely and responsibly. On the occasion of Girl Child Day, he also prayed for the protection, dignity and well-being of every girl, urging all to stand against injustice, discrimination and violence faced by girls.

The children presented the offertory gifts, symbolising the community’s gratitude and faith. Fr D’Cunha proposed the vote of thanks and expressed appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the novena and feast. Special gratitude was extended to the Strikers Group for their dedicated service and tireless efforts throughout the nine days and the feast celebration.

A significant highlight of the Eucharist was the newly formed parish choir, established under the guidance of Fr Sebastian Mony of the Diocese of Poona. Forty members across different age groups practised diligently for two months. For the first time at Sacred Heart Parish, the choir was trained in five-part harmony soprano, mezzo, alto, tenor and bass creating a rich and prayerful musical experience. The choir beautifully enhanced the liturgy and helped the faithful remain focused and prayerful throughout the Eucharist.

The celebration concluded with a prayerful procession of Mother Mary led by the Strikers Group, accompanied by hymns and prayers. The faithful then joined in singing the birthday hymn for Our Lady. After the blessing of the food, everyone gathered in the school hall for a fellowship meal, bringing the joyful celebration to a warm and memorable conclusion.