The Family Commission organized an Elders’ Get-Together and the inauguration of the Senior Citizens’ Association on Wednesday, 7th October 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the Church Hall. Nearly 300 people gathered for this special occasion, celebrating fellowship, care, unity and the valuable role of senior citizens in the family, Church and society.

The programme began with refreshments, followed by the formal proceedings with a prayer song invoking God’s blessings upon all present. Mrs Alice Pinto compered the programme, while Mrs Veena Lobo delivered the welcome address.

The dignitaries present included Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Valerian Frank, Resident Priest; Mr John D’Silva, Vice President of the Parish Council; Mr Alwyn Saldanha , Secretary of the Parish Council; Mrs Avita Mascarenhas, Coordinator of all Commissions; Mr Clinton D’Souza, Coordinator of the Family Commission; and resource person Mrs Lidwin Lobo.

The resource person, Lidwin Lobo, was warmly welcomed with a sapling, and a memento was presented to her as a token of love and appreciation.Mrs Shobha D’Souza introduced the resource person.

In her insightful session, Lidwin Lobo highlighted the importance of senior citizens and reminded them of God’s unfailing presence in old age. Referring to the Word of God, she encouraged the elders not to consider themselves a burden to their children but to entrust their worries and difficulties to the Lord. Through the action song “Jesus Took My Burdens Rolling Away,” she conveyed the message of placing all burdens in God’s hands.

She shared practical tips on healthy eating, regular exercise, prayer and spiritual growth. She encouraged the elders to pray the Psalms, maintain loving relationships with family members and in-laws, forgive others, and let go of anger and resentment. She also offered guidance on adapting to the challenges of ageing, seeking assistance for legal and property-related concerns, and making use of available support services for senior citizens.

Her session concluded on a cheerful note with the action song “I Build the Community, You Build the Community.” The MFC members also presented an energetic action song that brought joy and enthusiasm to the gathering.

In his message, Parish Priest Rev. Fr Basil Vas explained the importance of establishing the Senior Citizens’ Association as a platform for elders to share, care, laugh and strengthen unity among themselves. He encouraged them not to view old age as a time of waiting for death but as an opportunity to live meaningfully, deepen their faith and prepare for eternal life and heavenly bliss.

The newly appointed office bearers of the Senior Citizens’ Association are:

President: Prof. Ln. Ronald Mascarenhas

Secretary: Mrs. Veronica Pais

Treasurer: Mrs. Jacintha D’Souza

Members: Ronald Mascarenhas, Felix Monteiro and Stany Tauro

Fun-filled games were conducted for men and women, followed by the distribution of prizes to the winners. These activities added excitement and created opportunities for interaction and friendship among the participants.

Avita Mascarenhas, Coordinator of all Commissions, encouraged the senior citizens to remain active, creative and engaged. She invited the participants to take part in a Gospel of Matthew Writing Competition, in which they are required to write the entire

Gospel of Matthew by December, compose articles and poems, and share their life experiences through the parish bulletin. She emphasized that their wisdom, experiences and reflections could inspire the wider parish community.

Clinton D’Souza, Coordinator of the Family Commission, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the priests, resource person, dignitaries, organizers, MFC members and all those who contributed to the success of the event.

Rev. Fr Valerian Frank led the grace before the meal. The programme concluded with the Angelus, followed by dinner.

The get-together was a memorable celebration of faith, friendship and togetherness. It reaffirmed the parish community’s commitment to honouring its elders, caring for their well-being and ensuring that senior citizens continue to feel valued, supported and loved.

Report :Meena Serrao Barboza