Catechism Day Celebration 2022

The Catechism Day at Most Holy Redeemer Church Derebail was celebrated on March 13, 2022.

The academic year 2021-22 was quite a challenging yet successful one as children and Catechists had to switch between the offline and online mode for Catechism classes. Hence, the Catechism Day Celebration began on a note of gratitude with a Thanksgiving mass at 9 AM. The main celebrant Rev. Fr. Austin Peter Peres along with Rev.Fr. Walter Pinto offered the mass. Fr.Austin in his sermon elaborated on the theme of Transfiguration by giving the children various examples.

After the mass a short Catechism Day programme was conducted. Fr. Austin Peres along with Fr. Gerald Pinto, Mrs Sheela D'Souza, Mr Gaulbert Pais and Mr Edward Coelho graced the occasion as the dignitaries of the day.

During this programme, two children spoke on behalf of the rest and shared their experiences. While sharing their experiences it was highlighted that Catechism classes bring in positive changes in the lives of the children. The children also expressed their gratitude towards the parish priest and the Catechism teachers for conducting such effective Catechism classes.

Mrs. Sheel D'Souza , the Vice President of Parish Pastoral Council addressed the gathering. She appreciated the efforts that parent put in in bringing children for regular Catechism classes. She also stated that the elders have to bear the collective responsibility of leading their children on the right direction. The future of the children therefore vests in the hands of the elders.

Mr. Gaulbert Pais then read out the names of the children who had topped in the Catechism exam that was held on the 6th of March. Mrs. Sheela D'Souza and Fr. Austin Peres distributed the prizes.

Mr. Edward Coelho appreciated the Catechism teachers and requested them to come forward and collect mementos from Fr.Gerald Pinto.

Fr. Austin Peres then addressed the gathering. He congratulated the prize winners and spoke on the importance of Catechism classes.

Alma Pinto compered and Mr. Edward Coelho rendered the Vote of Thanks. The recessional hymn was then sung.

Ice cream was distributed to all the children, marking a sweet closure to the academic year of Catechism.

Report by: Lynsha Lobo
Pictures: Simon Pereira