St. Sebastian Church

Saint Matthias replaced Judas as the twelfth Apostle, as described in the Acts of the Apostles.

Saint Matthias is the patron saint of carpenters, tailors, those with smallpox, and in prayers for perseverance and for hope.

His feast was originally celebrated on February 24 (or February 25 in leap years) but in 1969 was moved to May 14 so as to be celebrated outside of Lent. He is often seen pictured with an axe; this is because it is believed that he was beheaded by an axe.

St. Matthias was born at Bethlehem of the Tribe of Judah. From his early childhood he studied the Law of God under the guidance of St. Simeon.

Every year on May 24th, the Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians. This special day reminds us that Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is also our mother. She helps us, prays for us, and lovingly leads us closer to her Son. This year, we also celebrate the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality, a joyful time to reflect on Mary’s place in our faith and how we can grow closer to her in everyday life.

Did you know that the title “Help of Christians” was made famous by Saint John Bosco? He had a deep love for Mary and built a large church in her honor in Turin, Italy, calling it the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians. He often told the young people he worked with to always trust in Mary, saying, “Have faith in Mary, and you will see what miracles are!”

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed;

Proverbs 31:25-28

Although it may seem logically paradoxical, there’s a timeless wisdom nestled within the saying: “God couldn’t be everywhere, so He created mothers.” Beneath its poetic surface lies a profound truth—an acknowledgment of the boundless love, care, and presence that mothers bring into our lives. In that single thought exists an entire universe of meaning, compassion, and grace.

Happiness and health are deeply connected. When we are happy, our body and mind function better. Many people believe that to be happy, we must first be healthy. But in truth, it often works the other way around—happiness itself can lead to good health. That is why we say, “Happiness is the key to health.”

Scientific studies have shown that happy people tend to live longer, have stronger immune systems, and suffer less from stress-related illnesses. This is because happiness releases positive chemicals in the brain, like endorphins and serotonin, which improve our mood, reduce pain, and protect our heart. In contrast, constant sadness, anger, or stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of diseases.

This exhibition is the result of the meticulous research and devotion of Bl. Carlo Acutis, a young teenager whose deep love for the Eucharist led him to document these Eucharistic miracles that have occurred across different countries over the centuries. His work was later recognized and compiled into this exhibition, which has since traveled the world, touched countless hearts and inspired a renewed faith in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Bl. Carlo Acutis is a beacon of hope and testimony for the young minds who are often bewildered with the modern-day technologies. Dear Parents and teenagers, Bl. Carlo is the model for us all. Use technology for the propagation of God’s glory. Through the life of Bl. Carlo we are called to make the right use of technology, download or develop apps for the good cause for our faith. For further reading on the exhibition please visit the website

https://www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/liste/list.html

Through detailed panels and documented testimonies, this exhibition presents miraculous occurrences where the Eucharist has physically transformed—manifesting as real flesh and blood, radiating light and healing the sick. These divine interventions, authenticated by scientific investigations and ecclesiastical approval, remind us that the Eucharist is not merely a symbol, but truly the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Christ.

Koxtt, Moronn Punorjivontponn
Prachit kall ami Magnnem, Upas ani donnvonn korun sarlo ani atam Paskamchea kallant ami pavl marlam Paskamchea kallant ami Jezuchea Punorjivontponnachi Porob kortanv, amcho Kristi bhavarth hea Porbecher tharlolo asa.

Jezu melo, Jezu punorjivont zalo ani Jezu novean ietolo ho amcho bhavarth zaun asa.

Amchea Kristi jivitak ami kosli xikovnn ghetanv zait? Jezu Devacho Put zaun pasun tannen koxtt Moronn sonschem poddlem, Devacho Put tho tori astanam Devan Taka amchea patkamchem bolidan zaumxem kelem. Amchea moga pasot Dev aplea Putak legit nivarunk toyar nam, Itlo Devan amcho mog kelo ki Tannem aplea ekleach Putak vopun dilo.

As we contemplate the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” we continue to journey in faith, firmly believing in the promised destination. Along the way, we thank God for promising to bring us peace, as we trust in His control and refrain from anxiety. Our recent Novenas and the Feast of our Patron, St. Sebastian, provided us with ample opportunities to rejuvenate and renew our Christian lives. It was heartening to witness our parishioners come together to celebrate this annual feast, an event we all eagerly anticipate with great enthusiasm and fervor.

Another traditional highlight of our feast is the Litany held at the Church on the following Monday. This Litany, affectionately known as “Ganvkaranchi Ladin,” was initiated by locals several years ago and has been kept alive by some of our fellow brethren. Although initially sung in Latin, it is now sung in Konkani. I have had the pleasure of participating in this Litany since my childhood days.

1.Introduction:

The Chrism Mass is a Mass where the Bishop of a diocese gathers with his priests to bless three types of holy oils, for renewal of priestly vows and celebration of the Eucharistic. It is a significant liturgical celebration in the Catholic Church that takes place on Holy Thursday morning. The Significance of the Chrism Mass highlights the importance of the sacraments and the role of priests in administering them. It’s also a celebration of the unity and communion among priests and their bishop.

2.The Chrism Oil:

The Olive tree is the most common tree in Palestine, and it grows abundantly in Galilee. The Sacred use of Olive oil is found in the Old Testament: Jacob anointed pillar at Bethel (Genesis 28:10-22); Aaron and sons anointed as priests (Exodus 30:22-31), Kings anointed with oil: Saul, David, Solomon (I Samuel 16:12,13. The Purpose of Anointing was to dedicate person or object as sacred in God’s service

Christians and even non-Christians know something about Good Friday and Easter Sunday. But we also know the day that precedes these two days, i.e. MAUNDY THURSDAY. It is also referred to as Holy Thursday or Thursday of the Supper of the Lord. The word ‘Maundy’ is a shortened form of the Latin word “Mandatum’ which means ‘Command’, reflecting Jesus’s words, “A New Commandment I give you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you must love one another.” Thus, Jesus raised the definition of Love to a new and higher standard.

Maundy Thursday is one of the most important days in the Church’s year and includes all the most significant elements of the Gospel in which we trust, namely, Institution of the Holy Eucharist, the Commandment to Love and Serve, and Holy Priesthood.

The Holy Eucharist: On Maundy Thursday, Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist, using two of the frailest elements – Bread and Wine – as symbols of His Body and Blood, and established them to be the monuments of His Death, in order that His Sacrifice on the Cross may never be forgotten. He entrusted to the Church a daily reminder of His Death and Resurrection.