The joyful Christmas week ends on the last day of the calendar year signalling the end of the old. The year 2023 has touched the finishing line after it’s run of 365 days and we are now ushering in a new chapter of life. As the old chapter makes way for a new one, it is time to reminisce all the good memories experienced throughout the year along with reliving the achievements and success. It also represents the time to reflect on all mistakes committed as well as the challenges overcome by us not forgetting to thank our Almighty God for all the favours granted during the year. With this roller coaster ride down memory lane, we also make a promise to become a better version of ourselves in the coming year. We are also encouraged to work harder while striving to lead an exemplary life. The arrival of a new year truly inspires and motivates us to dream of a fascinating and a happy tomorrow. You will all agree that the first idea that comes to our mind when hearing the term ‘New Year’ is the resolution. It is an aim that people decide to achieve or maintain in the coming year but in the hectic life that we all lead, this resolution takes a back seat. However, the new year signifies the idea of renewal or starting afresh. As the great saying goes, it is never too late to start all over again. And as we welcome the New Year 2024, what better way of reviving a resolution that was long overdue? Let’s strive to achieve those long lost dreams and aspirations while ushering in a new chapter of life, this being an auspicious occasion to turn over a new leaf.

Incidentally this coming year,2024is a leap year. The intercalary day that usually occurs every four years is called the leap day and is created by adding an extra day to the month of February. This day is added to the calendar in the leap years as a corrective measure because the Earth does not orbit the Sun in precisely 365 days. Many people still believe and have a wrong notion that leap years and 29th February in particular bring bad luck. No doubt that these are only superstitious beliefs with no basis at all.

This year the feast of our patron, St. Sebastian will be celebrated on 11th February with the usual pomp and fervour. However in the Roman Catholic Church, St. Sebastian is commemorated by an optional memorial on 20th January, believed to be the day he was martyred.

Here’s wishing each one of you and your family, a wonderful year ahead, filled with the promises of a brighter tomorrow. Wish you courage, hope and faith to overcome all the hurdles you may face. May you have a great year filled with heavenly blessings from above..

WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR 2024..!!!

Until we meet again, take care and God bless you

Felix Dias
(Editor)