New Year Mass: Celebration of Solemnity of Mother Mary along with Thanksgiving Mass

New Year Mass: Celebration of Solemnity of Mother Mary along with Thanksgiving Mass Back

New Year Mass: Celebration of Solemnity of Mother Mary along with Thanksgiving Mass

On the New Year's occasion, the Catholic Church celebrates the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.
In order to honour Mother Mary and offer Thanks to the Lord for the blessings showered throughout the year, the Parishioners of Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail assembled at the Church grounds for Adoration and Benediction of Blessed Sacrament at 7.00 PM. This was lead by the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis.
This was followed by a Festal Mass at 7.30 PM. Rev. Fr. Gerald Pinto was the Main celebrant and Parish Priest, Rev Fr. Joseph Martis was the con-celebrant.

In his Homily, Fr. Joseph highlighted the significance of the day by speaking on Mother Mary's role in the life of St. John Paul II and encouraged the faithful to remain in the shadow of Mother Mary.
He further called upon the Parishioners to strengthen the importance of prayer in the family. He encouraged the parents to send their children for Catechism classes as it teaches the truths of life. He stressed on the need to attend Ward Meetings. Finally he insisted that all should participate in Holy Eucharistic celebration every week. He ended the sermon by calling out to all to begin the new year with positivity. This he emphasized could be built up by thinking good thoughts and by speaking good about others.
Donors were honoured with the candle towards the end of the celebration. The entire celebration was led by the melodious voices of the Choir.
The Prizes for Star making competition and Christmas Card making competition were distributed after the mass. Lucky draw for Family Selfie Competition and Jingle Bell Rock Carol singing video competition was also conducted.
Refreshments were served after the mass.
The New Year began with jubilation as the Parishioners exchanged greetings on the occasion.

Report by: Leston Pinto
Pictures: Simon Pereira