July 27th 2025 was indeed a blessed day for us all. The Catechetical Unit of St. Sebastian Church, Aquem, organised the Grandparents Day Celebration in reverence, with a solemn high Mass and a befitting get together, thereafter. It was a bright day and the parish congregation prayerfully upheld the day’s celebration, for grandparents, during the solemn Mass at 9 a.m. which was followed by the blessing of the grandparents by our Parish Priest, Fr. Simpliciano N. Fernandes with sprinkling of Holy Water for God’s glory.
Being the first celebration for us catechists, we looked forward to making this event a memorable one. The thorough planning of the day’s programme was well drafted, planned and executed by our Catechists’ Executive Committee along with the other Catechists in-charges, who meticulously looked into the minute details of the arrangements, in making the day a grand success. The artistic backdrop was done by the creative Catechists. The whole hearted cooperation and dedication of the catechists, along with the parents who took time to bring their children for practice regularly, deserves acknowledgement and appreciation.
The grandparents were given a warm welcome in the Church hall by Aestrel and Jiselle, our young budding comperes (confirmation students) and hosted the
entire event with zest and confidence.
The catechism children of all classes, enthusiastically participated in the colourful entertainment programme of Prayer Song, Welcome Action Song, Grandparents’ Day Song and a Skit in Konkani, and a Retro Fashion Show, and ‘A Stroll through the Golden Era.’ that left the audience enthralled. Snacks were served to all grandparents.
The cake cutting ceremony was the highlight of the celebration.
There were two spot prizes too, involving the participation of both grandparents and grandchildren.
The meaningful speeches of wisdom and experience by both, our parishioner, Mr. Rosarito Coelho (grandparent) and our Parish Priest, Fr. Simpliciano N. Fernandes gave the audience an insight to ponder on the invaluable contribution of grandparents, in our homes and society. Grandparents were presented a rose and a token of love and appreciation to mark the day.
The day’s curtains were brought to a close by catechist, Valantina Fernandes, one of the event in charge, who proposed the Vote of Thanks. The program was well attended and appreciated by one and all.
Bãzìã, Valantina and Sherida, Catechists