Faith and Leadership: Children and Youth Take Initiative to Lead the Ward Meeting at Landlinks Lower Ward

The monthly ward meeting of Landlinks Lower Ward was led by the children and youth on 14th June 2026 at 12 noon at the residence of Mr Ivan and Mrs Shaila Noronha.

The gathering commenced with the M.C. baby Kaelyn D'souza beautifully introducing everyone to the day's event. This was followed by a welcome address by Swedan Noronha. A hymn was then sung by all the ward members.

The meeting was led by Riya D'souza. The Word of God was chosen from the Gospel of John 6: 51-58 and was read by SAnvy Albuquergue and Swedal Noronha. The children chose the words, " I am the Bread of Life," as their guiding Word for the month. The children and youth also offered their personal prayers with devotion and sincerity.

The second part of the meeting was lef by the Gurkar Mrs Shaila Noronha. The report of the previous month's meeting was read by the secretary, Mrs Aureen Mascarenhas, and was approved by all the members present.

A fun-filled game was conducted by Mrs Felcy Lobo and Mrs Flavia Menezes. Cash prizes were distributed by Rev. Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris and Brother Prajwal, who had graced the occasion with their presence.

In his message, Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris encouraged the children and youth to take the initiative to conduct ward meetings at least once a year. He expressed his happiness at seeing the children read Konkani clearly and confidently. He also suggested incorporating hymns from Samudayachi Geetha into future prayer meetings by practising them through YouTube. Fr Steevan Nelson Peris appreciated the enthusiasm, dedication, and active participation shown by the children in conducting the meeting.

Birthday and wedding anniversary wishes were conveyed by Anson Coelho. The vote of thanks was proposed by Mrs Teena D'Souza.

A total of 13 children and youth and 21 adults attended the meeting.

The gathering concluded with a fellowship lunch served by JMJ Catering.

Report by: Mrs Shaila Noronha