“Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them. (John 6:56)
On 18th January 2026, 21 children received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion in our Parish. This sacred occasion marked an important milestone in the spiritual journey of the children as they received Jesus for the first time.
The children were well prepared through the preparatory sessions conducted from 8th January to 17th January 2026, with the guidance and support of Fr. Gabriel Lobo, whose involvement greatly enriched the children’s spiritual formation.
As an important part of their preparation, the children received the Sacrament of Reconciliation on 14th January 2026. The sacrament was offered to both the children and their parents, emphasizing the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God. This meaningful experience helped the children prepare themselves spiritually to receive the Holy Eucharist worthily. The Sacrament of Reconciliation was administered by Fr. Gabriel and Fr. Ritesh, for which we are sincerely thankful.
The First Holy Communion Mass was celebrated by our Parish Priest Fr. Simpliciano Fernandes. The children participated with devotion in the liturgy, hymns, and prayers.
Overall, the First Holy Communion was well-organized and spiritually enriching. The combined efforts of the priests, catechists, parents, and children contributed to the successful and meaningful celebration of this important sacrament.
Kantaram Lharam 2026 was powered by INTElectra, Commonwealth Developers Pvt. Ltd., and Monginis. The Associate Partners included Furtados Music, Nave Marg Foundation, Lokmanya Multipurpose Co-op, Anta Jewellers, Hotel La Flor, and Sai Service, along with the parishioners of Aquem and well-wishers from across Goa.
The event was coordinated by members of the Parish Pastoral Council and various associations of St. Sebastian Parish, Aquem. The Executive Committee comprised: Fr. Simpliciano N. Fernandes (Mentor), Mr. Desmond Gomes (Project Manager), Mrs. Sucorina Fernandes, Mr. Adlete Mascarenhas, Mrs. Philoo Cardozo, Mr. Neville Fernandes, Mr. Dalston Dias, Mrs. Cidalia Dias, Mrs. Brigida Fernandes, Ms. Rhea Bangalorkar, Mr. Cedric Rodrigues, Mr. Rohit Ferrao, Mr. Leslie Fernandes, Mrs. Santana Fernandes, Mr. Otto D’Souza, Mr. Tudor Dias, and Mr. Jason Cardozo.
Kantaram Lharam 2026 not only celebrated the vibrancy of Konkani music but also reaffirmed the organising committee’s unwavering commitment to preserving this treasured cultural legacy for future generations.
By Meena Vaz, Catechist