Women's Association celebrates International Women's Day Back

Women's Association celebrates International Women's Day

The Women's Association at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail celebrated International Women's Day on the 8th of March, 2021.
The celebration began with a Eucharistic Celebration at 5.30 PM. The entire liturgy was led by the members of the Association. 
    The Eucharistic Celebration was followed by a get together at the Parish Meeting Hall. The get together commenced with  a prayer song. Mrs. Celine Correa, President of the Association, formally welcomed the gathering.  Parish Priest, Fr. Austin Peres; Resident Priest, Fr. Gerald Pinto; Vice President, Mrs. Sheela D'Souza; Secretary, Mr. Gaulbert Pais of Parish Pastoral Committee; President of Diocesan Women's Association, Mrs. Terry Pais; Sr. Valsa John and the Secretary of the Parish Women's Association; Mrs. Benedicta D'cunha were the dignitaries who graced the occasion. The Dignitaries on and off the dais were given a floral welcome. 
The most attractive and touching moment was when the ladies walked in procession by holding candles. This was the symbolic welcome to the programme of the day. Later,  the annual report of the association was presented. Mrs. Felcy Lobo and Mrs. Juliet Fernandes were felicitated for their contribution in the feild of Literature and Social Service. Recognizing the efforts of the women in the medical field is quintessential in the present scenario.  All the nurses and medical officials of the Parish were also felicitated. 
   Mrs. Sheela D'Souza spoke on the importance of valuing the services of women both in and outside the domestic circle. Fr. Gerald Pinto highlighted the role of women  as pillars of both the family and society.  Mr. Gaulbert Pais, in his speech called upon to continue to respect and support women.  Sr. Valsa John in her speech told the gathering that the ' Mother' is the God that is visible to our eyes, hence one must treat her with respect. 
     In his Presidential Address, Fr. Austin Peres highlighted the prominence of women both in the Bible and in the Church. He also stressed that a woman's presence in the house and participation in the activities of the society enhances the beauty of the household and the society. 
    This was followed by a short cultural programme, led by the members of the Association.  Mrs. Dora D'cunha rendered the Vote of thanks, Mrs. Merlyn Mascarenhas compered and  Mrs. Pramila Furtado conducted the games.
   The Women's Day celebration ended with a strong message that a society that enables women,  is the society that celebrates mankind.

Report by: Victor Correa 
Pictures: Pressy Periera

Translated by:  Lynsha Lobo