“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the Kingdom of Heaven.” — Matthew 19:14

Diocesan Theme: “Our Children are the Fruits of God’s Kingdom.”

The Sunday Catechism classes for the academic year 2026–2027 were solemnly inaugurated at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, on Sunday, 7th June 2026, during the 8:30 a.m. Holy Eucharistic Celebration.

The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Parish Priest, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest, and Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St. Lawrence English Medium School.

A deeply moving inaugural enactment beautifully reflected the Gospel message of Jesus’ love for children. During the entrance procession, children, parents, and catechism teachers reverently approached the altar. A boy dressed as Jesus stood at the centre, while a girl holding a symbolic branch stood behind Him. Parents lovingly brought their children to Jesus, embracing them as He held their hands in blessing, portraying the touching scene of Christ welcoming little children into His loving care. This meaningful presentation reminded everyone that every child is a precious gift from God and that faith formation begins in the family and is nurtured through catechism.

Following the enactment, parents and teachers joined together in a heartfelt prayer, entrusting all the children to the loving protection of Jesus and seeking His guidance throughout the new catechetical year. The prayer emphasized the importance of catechism in helping children grow in faith, values, and a personal relationship with Christ.

The inaugural celebration witnessed the enthusiastic participation of children, parents, catechism teachers, the Vice President and Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, all Commission Heads, and a large gathering of parishioners, reflecting the parish’s commitment to the Christian formation of its young members.

In his inspiring homily, Rev. Fr Basil Vas explained the profound meaning and significance of the Feast of Corpus Christi, reminding the faithful that the Holy Eucharist is the living presence of Jesus among His people. He encouraged parents and teachers to work together in nurturing the faith of children, helping them to know, love, and follow Christ through regular participation in catechism and the sacraments.

At the conclusion of the Holy Mass, Fr Basil extended his prayerful wishes for a grace-filled, joyful, and spiritually fruitful catechetical year to all the children, parents, and teachers. The liturgy was prayerfully led by the catechism teachers, whose dedication and devotion added to the solemnity of the celebration.

The children’s choir uplifted the hearts of the faithful through their melodious hymns and praise, creating a truly prayerful atmosphere and reminding everyone that children are indeed the hope of the Church and the bearers of God’s Kingdom.

May this new catechetical year inspire every child to grow in faith, wisdom, and love for God, and may the guidance of Jesus, the Divine Teacher, accompany them always.

Report : Meena Serrao Barboza

Photography : Glanvia & Winston