Thane South Deanery SCC Rally was held on Sunday, 28th January, 2024 at Holy Trinity Church, Powai Grounds from 6.30 p.m to 10.15 p.m. 10 Parishes from Vikhroli to Thane participated and approx. 650 to 700 participated including Priests and Religious. His Lordship Bishop Allwyn D’Silva was the Chief Guest. The evening started with a Parade of all the 10 Parish SCC Coordinators, Community Coordinators and Animators. The Theme was LISTEN, UNDERSTAND AND SERVE with the symbolic picturization of Ear, Heart and Hands. Clarissa invited the Parish Coordinators to repeat the Pledge prepared by Fr. Michael, dedicating their life to community service. Bishop Allwyn, a few Priests and Sisters lit the Ceremonial Lamp. The Opening Prayer Service was conducted by us, the Host Parish. Clarissa later welcomed Bishop Allwyn and all those present and Fr. Jordan presented a token of appreciation to his Lordship. Bishop said a few words and appreciated the Theme of our Rally. His message was,” Basic Human Community is the need of the hour in today’s fragmented Society”. He cited the example of a Lady, Shabnam, who has started the “Come to my house Movement” irrespective of any religion or community.
Fr. Michael came up with a brilliant idea of felicitating 1 senior Ex Animator from each Parish to appreciate their service. Bishop graciously presented them with a Plaque as a token of appreciation.
Fr. Felix D’Costa conducted a Talk Show for 45 minutes with a Panel of 2 Married Couples from our Parish, Mr. Remy & Mrs. Priscilla Fernandes & Mr. Ajit & Mrs. Mita Rechal Barla, Ms. Chantelle James (Youth) and 1 Professional, Mr. Lloyd Rego (both from St. Pius X). The Topic was our Theme and how we relate it to our daily life of family and prayer. He regaled us with his wit and shayari. Fr. Felix said our Theme was very apt to the SYNOD that has happened recently. He also highlighted 5 important aspects of Community work being Area Meetings, Gospel Reflection, increased number of Animators, Outreach work and organizing of Community functions. All this shows how much SCCs have evolved since inception. Later, Fr. Felix was felicitated by Fr. Jordan.
All the 10 Parishes presented a short PPT on their functioning which was inspiring and commendable.
The evening started on a lighter note with performances from all the remaining 9 Parishes with Dances, Songs and Skits, all in keeping with the Theme. The messages conveyed were very powerful and appreciated by all. Elton Aranha compered the Show with Honbrie Mendonca (Youth from St. Pius X) cohosting. They kept the crowd engaged throughout with some Spot Prizes and fun.
4 Parishes put up Selfie Booths showcasing Goan, Mangalorean, East Indian and Tamilian cultures, which had everyone rushing to them. St. Anthony’s had an Exhibition to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of the Blessed Sacrament Congregation and also exhibited pictures on the Life of Blessed Carlos Acutis, which was a big attraction.
Snacks were served and all the Coordinators and Animators were presented with a Momento of the Rally.
We are grateful to St. Anthony’s Parish for the live coverage and photography.
Fr. Michael, our Deanery Coordinator concluded the Rally with the Vote of Thanks.
Clarissa D’Mello Thane Deanery Parish SCC Coordinator