The Inaugural Mass for the Catechetical Year 2026 – 2027 was solemnly celebrated on Sunday, 28th June 2026 at 8:00 a.m at St. Sebastian Church, Aquem.
Theme for the Catechetical Year : “Abide in Me” – Jn 15:4
As a creative gesture, the catechists displayed the logo for this pastoral year. As a symbol of entrusting oneself to God, each member placed a leaf bearing their name on the Holy Cross, signifying their commitment to “Abide in Christ” and grow together as one family in faith.
The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Rev. Fr. Ubaldo Fernandes, Parish Priest. In his homily, Fr. Ubaldo reflected on the theme “Abide in Me”, emphasizing that catechists, students and parents are called to remain deeply rooted in Christ in order to bear lasting fruit in faith and witness. He asked all to nurture a living relationship with Jesus through prayer, the Sacraments and service.
During the Mass, the catechists publicly renewed their commitment and took an oath to faithfully impart Christian doctrine and values to the Catechism children.
The newly appointed Catechetical Executive Committee (ExCo) was introduced:
1) 𝗔𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿 : Fr. Ubaldo Fernandes 2) President : Ms. Andrea Baptista
3) 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝗲 – 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 : Ms. Valantina Fernandes 4) Secretary : Mr. Rayhann Cardozo
5) 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 – 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 : Ms. Dashia Gomes 6) Treasurer : Ms. Valanka Crasto
𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 :-
1) Sr. Godwina Pereira 2) Sr. Anette Dias 3) Sr. Karol Rodrigues
4) Mrs. Edna Coelho 5) Mrs. Bazia Da Costa 6) Ms. Neysa Fernandes
7) Mrs. Ranilda Vaz 8) Ms. Calandra Gomes 9) Ms. Sancha Gomes
10) Mr. Ronan D’Silva 11) Ms. Savion Fernandes 12) Ms. Loren Gonsalves
13) Mrs. Lydia Lobo 14) Mr. Wilbur Fernandes 15) Ms. Rhea Bangalorkar
16) Ms. Annaliz Gomes 17) Mrs. Meena Vaz 18) Ms. Sinyola Lopes
This year, the Association is happy to re – introduce Book 8 – Post Confirmation Class. The initiative has received a very encouraging response from students and parents.
The Mass concluded with a special blessing on all catechists, students and parents. The parish community was invited to pray for and support the catechetical mission throughout the year.
Andrea Baptista
President – Catechetical Association St. Sebastian Church, Aquem