Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Celebrated with Devotion and Joy

On 8 September 2026, the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was celebrated with great devotion and joy at The Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail.

All the parishioners, especially the children carrying flower baskets, gathered at the St. Ann’s School ground at 7:30 a.m. The gathering began with hymns and prayers offered in devotion to Mother Mary. The children showered flowers in honour of Mary.
A grand procession then proceeded towards the church, accompanied by a musical band.The Gurkars carried the blessed new corn into the church.

The Eucharistic celebration followed, with Rev. Fr. Rohan Dias as the main celebrant. Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, Parish Priest, and Rev. Fr. Nelson Peres, Assistant Parish Priest, concelebrated the Holy Mass.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Rohan Dias explained the fourfold significance of the day. First, it is the celebration of the birth of the Virgin Mary; second, it is the festival of the harvest; third, it is a celebration of the family; and finally, it is a celebration of the girl child.

After Holy Communion, the Gurkars distributed the blessed new corn to all the parishioners. The melodious choir led by the children added to the solemnity and beauty of the Eucharistic celebration.

The Mass concluded with the distribution of sugarcane to all the parishioners. The parishioners came together as one family to celebrate the Nativity of our Blessed Mother with great faith, joy and enthusiasm.

Report by: Loretta
Pictures: Roshan Fernandes