The Parishioners of Bondel Church & Shrine came together in prayerful unity on December 31, 2025, to thank God for the year gone by and to welcome 2026 with hope and gratitude. The New Year observance began at 6:30 p.m. with solemn Eucharistic Adoration, as the faithful gathered before the Blessed Sacrament in reverence and trust, entrusting the New Year to God’s loving grace.

The Holy Hour was prayerfully led by Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, who gently guided the faithful into deep moments of silence, reflection, thanksgiving, and intercession. With pastoral warmth and spiritual insight, he invited the congregation to thank God for the countless blessings of the past year, to examine their inner journey of faith, and to seek renewal of heart and spirit as they stepped into the New Year. His message, rooted in hope and trust, inspired all present to grow deeper in faith and to place their lives confidently in God’s loving and unfailing guidance.

The Solemn Eucharistic Celebration on the Feast of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, was reverently presided over by the Most Rev. Dr Ignatius D’Souza, Bishop of the Diocese of Bareilly. He was joined at the altar by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; Rev. Fr Ravi, MSIJ; Rev. Fr Nelson Pais; Rev. Fr Robert; and Dn Wilfred Stevan Rodrigues, who concelebrated the Holy Eucharist in a spirit of unity and thanksgiving.

In his homily, Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha reflected on Mary as a blessing, highlighting her perfect faith, humble “yes” to God, and example of discipleship. He reminded the community that they had gathered to thank God for the blessings of the past year, entrust the New Year into His loving hands, and celebrate the Feast of Mary, Mother of God, seeking her maternal protection and intercession.

He emphasized that blessings bring joy and a divine touch to life, and that God always keeps His promises, fulfilling them in His perfect timing. Like a mother’s love, His care is tender, constant, and life-giving. As the New Year unfolds, we are called to seek Mary’s blessings in our homes and workplaces, imitate her humility and obedience, and become instruments of God’s love and mercy—receiving grace through Mother Mary and sharing it with the world.

The Oath-Taking Ceremony was administered by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest. The newly elected Vice President, Secretary, Gurkar’s, Finance Committee members, and Parish Pastoral Council members took their oath before the Altar, pledging to fulfill their responsibilities with faith, integrity, and wholehearted commitment, and promising to serve the parish sincerely and with dedication.

The spiritual ambiance was beautifully uplifted by the angelic voices of the children’s choir, whose heartfelt hymns added a profound sense of reverence and joy to the celebration.

Concluding the Eucharistic celebration, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the Parish Priest, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Most Rev. Dr Ignatius D’Souza for celebrating the Mass and offering prayers for the parish community, and he also thanked the concelebrating priests. He warmly extended his New Year wishes to all parishioners and appreciated everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration.

Rev. Fr Andrew acknowledged the dedication of the Parish Pastoral Council members, volunteers, liturgical committee, children’s choir, Altar servers, sound system and cake sponsors, and concelebrating priests, commending their unwavering support and efforts in making the occasion truly memorable.

The celebrations continued with a lively program organized by the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP).The winners of the Star and Crib Making Competitions were also recognized for their creativity and dedication, receiving well-deserved prizes.

The SVP’s special program featured engaging activities, including spot games, auctions, and Housie, filling the event with joy, energy, and enthusiastic participation from parishioners. The celebrations also featured a Lucky Draw organized by the YCS, adding an element of excitement and fun to the festivities.

Everyone exchanged warm greetings and extended heartfelt wishes for a blessed and prosperous New Year 2026. The church was beautifully adorned, radiating a festive and welcoming atmosphere as the New Year began.

Report: & Meena Serrao Barboza

Photography :Ronald D’Souza