Udupi/M’Belle: Catechism Day Celebration Showcases Talents of Children

By Dr. Eugene DSouza
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi/M’Belle, 02 Mar: Catechism Day was celebrated in St. Lawrence Church, Moodubelle on Saturday, 2 March 2019 with holy mass and cultural programme. Besides animating the liturgy of the holy mass, they also formed the choir singing all the hymns in melodious voice. Thereafter, following a brief stage programme, catechism students of all the classes right from first to tenth standard presented cultural programmes that showcased their talents with the guidance of their teachers, support from parents and overall supervision by Fr. Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest and Fr. Clement Mascarenhas, Parish Priest.

 

The holy mass at 4 pm was concelebrated by Fr. Vincent Lobo from the Diocese of Kolkata as the chief celebrant along with Fr. Clement Mascarenhas, Fr. Lawrence Cutinha and Fr. Roman Mascarenhas-Rector of Diocesan Minor Seminary.

 

In his homily, Fr. Lawrence Cutinha highlighted the significance of Catechism in the life of an individual and said that catechism is not only the foundation of Christian faith but also that of life.

 

 

Soon after the holy mass, a brief stage programme was organized in St. Lawrence Community Hall. Fr. Clement Mascarenhas presided over the stage function. Other dignitaries on the dais included: Fr. Vincent Lobo as the chief guest, Fr. Lawrence Cutinha, Mrs. Latha D’Mello-Secretary of Parish pastoral Council, Sr. Irene Viegas, rs. Monica D’Souza-Convener of !8 Commissions and Mrs. Shanthi Alva-Coordinator of Catechism Classes.

 

Following the welcome address by Sr. Irene Viegas, Mrs. Shanthi Alva read the report of the activities of the catechism classes. On behalf of the parents, Mrs. Reena D’Souza shared her experiences regarding the catechism classes.

 

In his message, Fr. Vincent Lobo said that children have a number of opportunities in modern times which he did not have during his childhood. He further said that it was because of the teaching and example of his teachers and priests that he chose to become a priest and a missionary.

 

In his presidential address, Fr. Clement Mascarenhas appreciated the work of the catechism teachers under the leadership of Mrs. Shanthi Alva and had a special word of praise to Fr. Lawrence Cutinha for his efforts in making catechism interesting to students.

 

 

Prizes were distributed to students who has secured first and second positions in the catechism examinations from each class. Similarly, those students who had sent percent attendance in catechism classes were also given prizes. Group prizes were awarded to the classes for animation of liturgy. While tenth standard secured the first position, eighth and seventh standards were second and third respectively.

 

Fr. Clement Mascarenhas gave away mementos to the catechism teachers for their service throughout the year.

 

Gracian Sequeira proposed the vote of thanks and Lizvita D’Souza compeered the programme.

 

Soon after the stage programme, students from each class presented cultural programmes including dances and skits.

 

The cultural programme was anchored by Vayona.

 

The entire programme manifested the talents of the catechism students under the guidance of their teachers.