Faces of Faith – Children’s Marian and Saints Dress Competition at Bondel

The Faith Formation Commission organised the Children’s Marian and Saints Dress Competition on Sunday, 30 August 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the St Lawrence English Medium School Auditorium, Bondel. The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation from the children of the parish. Lots were drawn at 2:45 p.m. to determine the order of participation.

The programme commenced at 3:00 p.m. with a prayer song by the 9th Grade students, followed by the welcome address delivered by Coordinator Teacher Lilia Pinto. Teacher Meena Barboza introduced the judges.

The programme was graced by Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Lawrence Coutinho, Assistant Parish Priest and Director of Sunday Catechism; Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; Mr John D’Silva, Vice-President of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mr Alwyn Saldanha, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; and Mrs Avitha Mascarenhas, Commission Coordinator . The dignitaries were welcomed by the teachers with roses.

The judges for the competition were Rev. Fr Joel Monteiro, Assistant Parish Priest of St Sebastian Church, Bendur, and Sr Cecilia Mendonca of Bethany, Vamanjoor Convent, Deputy Secretary of the Bethany Educational Society.

In his meaningful message, Rev. Fr. Basil Vas encouraged the children to grow in faith, follow the example of Mary and the saints, and remain close to God. He reminded them that the saints are role models who inspire us to live with love, kindness and courage. He also encouraged the children to pray and become instruments of God’s goodness. Addressing the parents, he appreciated their support in nurturing their children’s faith and urged them to lead by example.

Rev. Fr. Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, congratulated all the parents and children for their enthusiastic participation. He highlighted the lives of the saints, especially Mother Mary, who leads us closer to God and inspires us to live a life of faith. He encouraged parents to inspire their children towards vocations, especially the priesthood, as a beautiful calling to serve God and His people. He reminded the children that prizes are not everything and that the saint or Pope they represented is a precious gift and an inspiration from God. He encouraged everyone to pray to the saint they portrayed and seek their blessings, guidance and inspiration.

The judges were presented with mementos as a token of love and appreciation for their valuable contribution and support.A total of 48 children participated in the competition, which was conducted in five categories. The first- and second-place winners in each category were honoured with trophies and cash prizes.

Sr Cecilia Mendonca, one of the judges, thanked the parish for inviting her and congratulated all the children and parents. She encouraged the children to follow the virtues of the saints and the Pope. She reminded them that Mother Mary leads us closer to God through her faith and obedience. She appreciated the children’s talents and thanked the parents and guardians for their support and encouragement.

The programme concluded with a Thanksgiving Hymn. The programme was compered by Dr Roshan D’Souza. Teacher Gloria Lobo proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Parish Priest, judges, dignitaries, teachers, parents and all those who worked tirelessly to organise and make the event a beautiful and meaningful celebration of faith. Refreshments were served to all the participants.

The competition was a joyful and faith-filled occasion, encouraging children to learn about Mary and the saints while expressing their love for God through their participation and talents.

The winners are as follows:

Category I – Classes 1 & 2

Boys

Leron Prince Lobo

Clive Machado

Girls

Nilin Joanne Vaz

Calida Pereira

Category II – Classes 3 & 4

Boys

Neethan Pranav Crasta

Riyon Synor Pais