The President, Rev Fr S. N. Fernandes in his address conveyed that this month is dedicated to pray for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. He explained, that suicidal thoughts should not be viewed merely as an individual failing or individual sin. He emphasized that many social influences contribute to a person reaching that situation. He said that society, social media and even the environment within one’s own family can play a role shaping a person’s mental and emotional well-being. The parish priest further explained that people from all walks of life may find themselves in such situations due to stress and other challenges and our Church is deeply concerned about this issue. He pointed that people facing such problems or stress should reach out and interact with their dear ones. So that others can help, pray for them or guide them to seek counselling. The contact numbers of special priest counsellors are displayed in the notice board and everyone was encouraged to seek their help without cost. He stated that priests are always ready to offer help and during the sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession the priests also provide proper guidance and direction. As parishioners, everyone was reminded, to care for one another through visits and regular inquiries about each other’s well-being
The other issue he raised is the works of missions as Mission Sunday had just passed by quoting St Augustine saying “The more you love the Church, the more you will be filled with the Holy Spirit”. As a missionary very Catholic has the responsibility for the wellbeing and growth of the Church, described as the Living Mystical Body of Christ reminding everyone that each parishioner is an active member of the Church.
Parishioners were exhorted to come forward willingly to take up responsibilities that support the mission and growth of the parish to be carried out with unity, cooperation and love, as these values strengthen the parish community. He expressed appreciation to the community for their dedicated
team work.
Christmas & New Year programme
The detailed planning for the Christmas and New Year programme was carried our deliberating on all the issues covering the liturgical, cultural, charitable and entertainment from December 19, 2025 to January 1, 2026. (This is given elsewhere by the moderator)
The specialty of this Jubilee Year will be Christmas crib with a theme depicting the period from the Fall to Redemption – Journey to the Jubilee 2033, marching towards the great jubilee of Redemption commemorating 2000 years since the resurrection of Christ.
Philoo Cardozo, PPC Secretary