HOLY NAME RECORD 1
R E C O R DVISION: MISSION:
www.cathedraloftheholyname.org www.facebook.com/cathedraloftheholyname
EDITORIAL TEAM: FR. ANTHONY CHARANGHAT-RECTOR & EDITOR, MARGARET DA COSTA, MAUREEN D’SA, GLORIA D’SA, TWILA FERNANDES
20192022
To be United, Empowering and Witnessing Communities.
FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLYJULY 2019
To Unitedly Empower Communities to be Witnesses of the Compassionate Love of Jesus.
HOLY NAME RECORD HOLY NAME RECORD2 3
The Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) is made up of the elected representatives from the nine communities, representatives from the main associations of the parish and nominated members from the unrepresented areas of the parish. It also includes the members of the clergy and the Superiors of the Religious Congregations, who
are ex-officio members. The PPC meets regularly once every month. Duties and responsibilities include reporting/feedback on Parish and SCC activities, planning for future events and taking up issues that affect the Parish as a whole.
Meet the newly-constituted PPC for 2019-22
PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
Fr. Anthony CharanghatRector (President)
Fr. Michael D’CunhaAssistant Parish Priest
Fr. Avin FranklinAssistant Parish PriestSr. Sylvia Mascarenhas
RJM, Fort Convent SchoolSr. Laila D’Souza
RJM, St. Anne’s SchoolSr. Helen Fernandes
Poor Sisters of Our LadyMargaret Da Costa
Vice PresidentDolorosa Raut
SecretarySaviana Phulsunghe
SCC Coordinator
Liane RemediosAPC Representative
Myron RamosSCC Animator
Michael VellalamSCC Animator
Rosy LoboSCC AnimatorJacinto Dias
SCC AnimatorPatricia Chandrashekhar
SCC AnimatorBarry Fernandes
Choir RepresentativeMathew FernandesSVP Representative
Jason NoronhaYouth Representative
Community No. 1:ST. MICHAELSaviana PhulsungheTo build a more connected neighborhood where people are known to each other, valued and feel a sense of belonging.
Community No. 2:LITTLE FLOWERMyron RamosTo make our Little Flower community a more vibrant one with a lot of interaction with all the families.
Community No. 4:ST. MOTHER TERESAMichael VellalamI had a good experience over the past three years and looking forward to share it with the new team as I have continued for the fourth year.
Community No. 5:ST. MARKRosy LoboTo keep the Community united and to cooperate with each other for any fruitful cause.
Community No. 7:ST. IGNATIUSJacinto DiasTo serve the Lord and His Church with a selfless heart.
Community No. 9:OUR LADY OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTIONLiane RemediosTo help our Community to be True Witnesses of the Compassionate Love of Jesus Christ.
Community No. 6:ST. JOHN BOSCOMargaret Da CostaWe care. We visit. We get to know each other. We are community.
Community No. 3:ST. THOMASDolorosa RautMy Lord and My God, help me build a Community of Peace, Harmony, Love and Understanding.
VISION STATEMENTS OF COMMUNITY LEADERS
We asked the SCC leaders for their vision statements /plans for their communities – and here is what they came up with.
Community No. 8:ST. ANTHONYPatricia ChandrashekharTo strive to be a more caring and sharing community.
EDITORIAL THE OLD ORDER ENDS, THE NEW BEGINS
- PRIMROSE D’SOUZA
Three years ago, I overcame a long-standing aversion to being on committees and agreed to be a choir co-representative to the Parish Pastoral Council. I quickly realised that I had been very lucky with the timing: we had the good fortune of being led by a superb parish team, helmed by Fr. Harry Vaz, Fr. Nigel Barrett, Fr. Michael D’Cunha, Fr. Avin Franklin and, for a while, Fr Joachim D’Costa.
Over the last few Saturday evenings, I have been unable to wrap my head around the fact that I will not regularly see either Fr Harry or Fr Nigel greet
parishioners after the Mass. Fr Harry had made it a heartwarming practice to always be around after as many Masses as he could, to smile in that way of his that could make you feel everything was right with the world, to shake your hand, and ask after your family. And, in time, the rest of the parish team took turns in the meet-and-greet as well, and many of us, emboldened by their friendliness, were also able to greet unfamiliar visitors to our church and make them feel welcome. Both Fr Harry and Fr Nigel had that wonderful gift of making you feel as if you counted, that whatever little talent you had would make a difference to the community.
IT’S LITTLE THINGS THAT MAKE ABIG DIFFERENCE
There was a man taking a morning walk on the beach. He saw that along with the morning tide came hundreds
of starfish and when the tide receded, they were left behind and with the morning sun rays, they would die. The tide was fresh and the starfish were alive. The man took a few steps, picked one and threw it into the water. He did that repeatedly. Right behind him there was another person who couldn’t understand what this man was doing.
He caught up with him and asked, “What are you doing? There are hundreds of starfish. How many can you help? What difference does it make?”
This man did not reply, took two more steps, picked up another one, threw it into the water, and said, “It makes a difference to this one.”
What difference are we making? Big or small, it does not matter. If everyone made a small difference, we’d end up with a big difference, wouldn’t we?
HOLY NAME RECORD HOLY NAME RECORD4 5
Fr Harry, in fact, could make a happy song and dance about everything. I’m sure, like me, you will never forget how he swept everyone - child, youth, adult, senior citizen – along with his enthusiasm; we’ve seen it at parish feasts and at Christmas bonfires (conga line anyone?), and, most recently, he animated the parish domestic workers to great joy at a get-together. Yet,
behind that jovial nature is a razor-sharp mind that is tempered by both diplomacy and compassion; he could soothe ruffled feathers with a few well-chosen words, and he could throw in Biblical wisdom when needed, because he is a theologian like no other. Only rarely would he need to dissuade his parish team and council from a course of action; his encouraging nature was so much a part of him that he was always willing to stand behind any good idea, and any good man.
When he had to take a long leave of absence for personal reasons, that good man was Fr Nigel, who rose to the challenge of the position of Acting Rector by always working for the best interests of the parishioners and the children of Holy Name High School, where he was Acting Manager. In fact, he was always to be found working closely with the young – the schoolchildren,
the Sunday School pupils, and the youth he constantly encouraged to push their own boundaries in creativity and courage. In the last year or so of his eight-year stint, he revealed new facets of himself that will make us miss him more – he made a great “grill guy” with Fr Michael at Mission Possible, and we were just beginning to hear that wonderful voice joining the choirs in prayerful worship at different Masses. His small Christian communities and his Sunday School team will particularly miss him; and the children will miss Tuck, who patiently put up with their squeezes and hugs.
The time has come for us to thank the Lord for the gift of these priests and their time with us, and to wish them well.
And with those farewells, the time has also come for us to embrace our new Rector – Fr Tony, to appreciate his shy smile and steady gaze. To give him our support as we begin our time together as a community and a parish. Welcome, Fr Tony!
THE RECORD INTERVIEWFR. ANTHONY CHARANGHAT
The arrival of a new Parish Priest is an important event in the life of a parish. For the Parish Priest, it is a new sphere of Pastoral work, while for us, the parishioners, it is a new chapter in the worship and life of the entire community.
Fr. Anthony Charanghat was inducted as the new Rector of the Cathedral of the Holy Name, by Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, on Sunday, 2nd June, 2019, heralding the beginning of a new phase of his ministry, empowering him for the care of our souls.
Maureen D’Sa & Gloria D’Sa from the Holy Name Record met up with Fr. Tony for a tete-a-tete and came away with the awesome feeling of having been in the presence of a gifted and talented priest.
Welcome to the Cathedral of the Holy Name Fr. Tony. Although you are well-known in the Parish, for the sake of those who you are new to,
can you give us a brief about your background – your family, and early days as a priest?I was born and brought up in Umerkhadi, schooled at St. Joseph’s, and was greatly influenced by my deeply religious family and priests of the parish who were frequent visitors at my home during my childhood, so it was no surprise when I decided that I would become a priest. Do you know, Umerkhadi has had a harvest of more than 20 diocesan as well as religious priests including Bishop Ferdie Fonseca, most of whom attribute our vocation to Msgr. Menino Dsouza our exemplary Parish Priest for 28 years?
When were you ordained? Tell us about your journey since then?I was ordained in December 1972, after 10 years in the seminary. During my seminary days, I was privileged to participate in the Eucharistic Congress in 1964, as seminarian altar server at the inaugural service and had the opportunity to be on the periphery of the main altar where Pope (now Saint) Paul VI was the main celebrant.
This was an immensely transforming spiritual experience for me that has impacted my life in my formation and ministry as a priest.
My years at the Seminary were a period of transition, the Second Vatican Council Documents were the rage. It made us free-thinking and independent in thought and theology. I consider myself a blend of the old and new schools.
From my early days in the seminary, I was involved in bringing out the Fraternitas – the annual Seminary magazine and appointed to edit the Samachar Display Boards. I was sent for an apprentice course to develop skills in news and editorial writing under the legendary doyens of the journalistic world at the Times of India. They were instrumental in encouraging me to complete my Masters in Literature as well as Sociology through Correspondence courses and Diploma in Journalism at the XIC, Mumbai.
My pastoral work began as a deacon at St. Andrew’s, Bandra, where I hopefully garnered the Youth to vibrancy following the Jesuit CLC way of seeking the ‘more of life.’ Our meetings centered on the 3 D’s: Develop, Discover and Dedicate oneself to undertaking projects of outreach to society. Youth ministry was my passion. It became the focus of my priestly ministry in the various parishes I was appointed as an assistant, at St. Anne’s - Pali Bandra, Our Lady of Rosary - Goregaon, Our Lady of Fatima - Sewree and Gloria Church in Byculla. During all these sixteen years of my pastoral work, I was also called to assist at The Examiner before taking over as the Editor of The Examiner which I have been doing now for the last 26 years.
Having worked under so many different Cardinals right from Cardinal Valerian to Cardinal Oswald, can you share your experiences with them?During my first year at the Archdiocesan weekly I was fortunate to be under the personal mentorship of Cardinal Valerian who showed me the ropes of publishing a religious newsweekly as he took me along with him to report on some of his visits to various functions around the Archdiocese. Those were the times he would share his vast repertoire of knowledge of faith, morals and spirituality of the masters of the Church. It fascinated me to learn of his personal, national and international achievements in India and abroad and listen to the grandeur of his oratory. He was ranked by Time Magazine as the fifth best speaker in the world.
Cardinal Simon Pimenta who knew me well as student Prefect of the seminary when he was there as the Rector, reposed his confidence in me appointing me as his secretary when I had a three-year break from the Examiner. Later he appointed me as the fulltime editor of The Examiner weekly. Cardinal Ivan Dias who succeeded Cardinal Simon later requested me to be the Director for Catholic Communications and Spokesperson of the Archdiocese. It was he who exposed me to the global Catholic media professionals making it possible for me to attend Communication seminars held in Europe and America. I was honoured that Cardinal Oswald Gracias who belongs to the C9 of the Holy Father and whom I always admired for his intellectual prowess, razor-sharp legal mind and suave diplomacy requested me to be on his think-tank team and resource person while continuing to be his personal spokesperson till we thought of reorganising the PR team three years ago. I was also given the additional responsibility as Parish Priest for six years at St Joseph RC Church Colaba prior to coming here.
It is going to be quite the balancing act handling The Examiner and being the Rector. Also we now have a smaller team at our parish. What plans do you have in mind to do that?Yes, it’s going to be quite a balancing act, but already well-thought out – at The Examiner we now have a very competent and qualified Managing Editor in Fr. Joshan, and at the Cathedral, while we are short-staffed, the Associate priests Fr. Avin and Fr. Michael have willingly offered to help
with their expertise in Finance, Liturgy, Scripture and administrative skills. Besides, Bishop Savio Fernandes has promised to be a pillar of support and guidance in the governance of the parish. Archbishop’s House priests too have agreed to chip in with the Masses and other services as they always do, not forgetting the accomplished parishioners who are known for their full participation in all aspects of Church life.
What are the weaknesses you can identify after all these years and what are the changes you would like to see in this parish?Our efforts should be to engender Unity in Christ of all communities – no groupism or elitism. After all we are all the children of One God, called to form the Mystical Body of Christ. The accent should be on faith-formation and constant spiritual growth that leads to service. In the Holy Name of Jesus may Faith, Fellowship and Fraternity be our motto.
HOLY NAME RECORD HOLY NAME RECORD6 7
The statue of St. Benedict, whose feast day is July 11, stands first on a plinth on the right side of the entrance to our Cathedral.
His twin sister Scholastica and he are believed to have been born around 480 AD, and were the children of a distinguished Roman noble of Norcia, Italy.
St. Benedict is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Oriental Orthodox Churches, the Anglican Communion and Old Catholic Churches. He is the patron saint of Europe, Monks, Kidney Disease, Poisoning, and School children
While studying in Rome, early in life he was drawn to monasticism. At first he became a hermit, leaving a depressing world - pagan armies on the march, the Church torn by schism, people suffering from war, morality at a low ebb. It was in Monte Cassino he founded the monastery that became the roots of the Church's monastic system. Instead of founding small separate communities he gathered his disciples into one whole community. His sister, Saint Scholastica, settled nearby to live a religious life.
After almost 1500 years of monastic tradition his direction seems obvious to us. However, Benedict was an innovator. No one had ever set up communities like his before or directed them with a rule. His beliefs and instructions on religious life were collected in what is now known as the Rule of Saint Benedict -- still directing religious life after 15 centuries. This simple set of guidelines for how the life of a monk should be lived has become one of the most influential works in all of Western Christendom.
Benedict realized the strongest and truest foundation for the power of words was the Word of God itself: "For what page or word of the Bible is not a perfect rule for temporal life?" He had experienced the power of God's word as expressed in Scripture: "For just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down and do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful, giving seed to him who sows and bread to him who eats, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; It shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it" (Isaiah 55:10-11).
For prayer, Benedict turned to the psalms, the very songs and poems from the Jewish liturgy that Jesus himself had prayed. To join our voices with Jesus in praise of God
during the day was so important that Benedict called it the "Work of God." And nothing was to be put before the work of God. Benedict believed with Jesus that "One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes forth from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).
But it wasn't enough to just speak the words. Benedict instructed his followers to practise sacred reading -- the study of the very Scriptures they would be praying in the Work of God. In this lectio divina, he and his monks memorized the Scripture, studied it, and contemplated it until it became part of their being. Four to six hours were set aside each day for this sacred reading. Lessons from Scripture were to be spoken from memory, not read from a book. In Benedictine
prayer, our hearts are the vessel empty of thoughts and intellectual striving. All that remains is the trust in God's providence to fill us. Emptying ourselves this way brings God's abundant goodness bubbling up in our hearts, first with an inspiration or two, and finally overflowing our heart with contemplative love.
Benedict had the revolutionary idea that work was a necessary instrument of virtue almost on a par with prayer, and often indistinguishable from it. He taught that it is not that work is interrupted by prayer, but that work and prayer form a unity whereby all our work becomes part of our prayer, and our prayer is itself part of our work. St. Benedict calls it the Opus Dei - the work of God. His was a voice of moderation and reason; his Rule is, indeed, a document about how a man can live with God in an imperfect world.
The influence of Benedict’s teachings led to the establishment and development of Monastic schools and also the establishment of Benedictine churches. Today the Benedictine family is represented by two branches: the Benedictine Federation encompassing the men and women of the Order of St. Benedict, and the Cistercians, men and women of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance.
According to tradition, Saint Benedict died on March 21, 547 AD. He foresaw his coming death, informing his close and faraway disciples that the end was near. Six days before dying, he had the grave which he was to share with his deceased sister Saint Scholastica, opened. Then, completely exhausted, he asked to be taken into his oratory where, after taking his last Holy Communion, he died supported by his monks.
KNOW YOURSAINTS
- MAUREEN D’SA
PARISH NEWS LENTEN OUTREACH – MARCH 7–10, 2019
MUKHTA JIVAN – LIVE WITH LOVE
The Cathedral of the Holy Name arranged a Word Fest for our parishioners to prepare us for the Lenten Season. Immediately after Ash Wednesday, we participated in a 4-day Outreach conducted by Bro. Trevor Lewis and his team from Jeevan Jal. On the first day Bro. Trevor spoke about the unconditional and merciful love of the Father, quoting various Scripture verses which touched our hearts. Even though all of us have sinned, God, our Father, looks upon us first as His sons and daughters, and then as sinners. Bro. Trevor also spoke in detail of God’s plan in sending His only begotten Son to die for us for our Salvation.
On the second day, he spoke about the Holy Spirit, Who makes us holy. We need to be immersed and baptized in the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5 “John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” John 16:7 “Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you.”) He enumerated all the various gifts and the fruit of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26 “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you.”) Only God, by divine revelation through the help of the Spirit, opens our minds to the “mysteries” of the truth, allowing us to discern what is truly vital to our salvation. Bro. Trevor gave us a practical demonstration of how to worship Jesus, by preparing the place, our hearts, minds and bodies and how we can experience Jesus in a
On 13th April 2019 morning, a group of about 35 parishioners from the Holy Name Cathedral, accompanied by our Rector, Fr. Harry Vaz, went in a bus to visit Mukhta Jivan at Velouli. On the way, we recited the Rosary together and Fr. Harry taught us a few action songs to entertain the children. He also guided us how we could fruitfully spend time with the inmates. At the Home, we were welcomed by Sr. Jeena and were served tea. She briefed us about the various wards we would visit in the complex, and informed us that Mukhta Jivan was
personal way.
The third day’s topic was on abiding with the Lord and bearing fruit. He very clearly enunciated the 4 steps.
1. No fruit – This stage is dangerous, fit to be chopped and thrown into the fire.
2. Bear fruit – Fruit starts appearing but the pruning will come (suffering) and will be painful.
3. More fruit – Pruning is important or else we cannot come to this 3rd stage.
4. Much fruit – Continue to remain in Me, and become My disciples.
Topics on the purpose of Suffering, Hell and Confession were explained in detail with Biblical references.
On the final day, Bro. Trevor gave us a brief history of the Catholic Church. He beautifully illustrated in detail the life of Jesus in the entire Mass. The altar vestments, linens and vessels used at Mass, and what they represent were also explained in detail.
We are very grateful to our Rector, Fr. Harry Vaz and our Spiritual Director, Fr. Michael D’Cunha for enriching our spiritual lives by arranging and facilitating this Lenten Outreach program, thanks to which we received great insights in our faith
- TERESA MENEZESMember, of Holy Name Prayer Group
founded by Mother Anna Huberta Roggendorf of the Society of Helpers of Mary.
The first visit was to the Skin OPD Ward for Leprosy patients, where at least 250 patients are attended to thrice a week. We then stopped at the Ward and interacted with the admitted and in-house leprosy patients.
Our next visit was to the St. Joseph’s Workshop. We were amazed to see what lovely articles were created by the leprosy patients. They made an amazing sale of various products like rugs, floor swabs, bags, scarves, etc.
ST. BENEDICT
HOLY NAME RECORD HOLY NAME RECORD8 9
Pentecost is when we celebrate the birthday of the church and ours as well as we are part of the body of Christ. This year on Pentecost Sunday, instead of the customary Pentecost Rally, there were parish-based Pentecost celebrations organized by the CCR teams in their individual parishes.
The celebration in our parish was held after the 6.30 p.m. Mass as we gathered in the Holy Name School Hall. Teresa Menezes from the Prayer Group led us in prayer and then Bishop Savio and our Rector Fr. Anthony Charanghat cut the cake as we sang “Happy Birthday to all of us on this Pentecost Day, we are the church, the gift of the Holy Spirit, Happy Birthday to us!”
Our compere for the evening was Barbara Craven, who led us into game mode even as snacks were served by smiling prayer group members. The lack of a sound system for the music didn’t deter Barbara. Together with
Liane she sang songs as we went round playing bombing the cities. Simple celebrations which helped us bond and forge new friendships.
A big thank you to Fr. Michael and the core group members of the prayer group for the arrangements and the other members of the prayer group who executed and helped with the function.
- GLORIA D’SA
After that, we spent time at “Angel’s Paradise”, housing children of HIV/AIDS victims. They entertained us with action songs and we reciprocated with the songs that Fr. Harry had taught us.
We went by bus to the Senior Citizens Home “Anna Niwas”. We sang community songs with the inmates and Sr. Jeena even danced while Fr. Harry played the bongo and entertained all present. We interacted with them and learnt about their life, their family background and how they adjusted to living with their disabilities. It was very heartwarming to see the able and active Senior Citizens looking after, feeding and caring for their counterparts who were ailing, bedridden and disabled.
Fr. Harry offered a Mass in the Chapel with all of us. We prayed for the Sisters, caregivers and the inmates of
A get-together was organised on 28th April 2019 for the Catholic Domestic workers residing in the Parish. The programme compered by Sr. Helen (PSOL), began with a warm welcome by Fr. Avin. The ice-breaker was
the Home. This was followed by lunch and an intimate sharing and reflection of our experience at the various Wards. Sr. Jeena gave us a detailed account of her call to her vocation and the difficulties she faced. Her dream to work with the lepers was fulfilled and said she owes it to the carpenter’s son, JESUS.
Soon, it was evening and time to say “Thank you and Goodbye” to one and all. Their motto/vision : “Reaching out with love of Christ to bring wholeness through health” will remain forever in our minds and hearts. It was a good opportunity for us to interact with the less privileged and those suffering from various ailments.
- CHRISTABELLE BARRETO & ALTHEA MENDONZA
DOMESTIC WORKERSGET-TOGETHER
a lively march-cum-dance led by Frs. Harry and Avin, which had the 40-odd participants having a lot of fun, keeping in step.
Teams were formed, which competed with each other by creatively dressing up their mascots with the assorted items provided to them. After refreshments were served, the attendees were entertained with games and there were prizes for the winners.
At the end of the evening, snack-boxes were distributed, and mementos presented. It was a fun evening for those present as they enjoyed the recreation and the opportunity to interact with each other.
A special thanks to Frs. Harry, Avin and Michael, Sr. Helen and the volunteers of the Parish Council for their interest and support.
COMMUNITY ROUND UP
Christian Meditation in our Parish
31st May: the final day of the recitation of the Rosary, and the feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary when Fr. Harry Vaz led and prayed the Rosary together with all the 9 communities.
All nine communities of our Parish came together to pray the Rosary during the month of May. On 23rd May, we were joined by His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias, along with Fr. K.T. Emmanuel.
Meditation is a universal spiritual wisdom and a practice found at the core of all the great religious traditions, leading from the mind to the heart. It is a way of simplicity, silence and stillness. It can be practised by anyone, wherever you are on your life’s journey.
In Christianity this tradition of contemplation, the prayer of the heart or 'apophatic prayer', became marginalised and often even sometimes suspect. But in recent times a major recovery of the contemplative dimension of Christian faith - and prayer - has been happening. This is transforming the different facets of the Church and revealing the way the Gospel integrates the mystical and the social. Central to this process now is the rediscovery of how to pray in this dimension and at this depth: finding a practice of meditation in the Christian tradition.
Meditation has the capacity to open up the common ground between all cultures and faiths today. But why speak of 'Christian meditation'?
Firstly, the faith with which you meditate – some sense of personal connection with Jesus.
Secondly, the historical scriptural and theological tradition in which we meditate.
Thirdly, the sense of community it leads to: ‘when two or three pray together in my name, I am there among them.’
Fourthly, the other means by which our spiritual life is nourished: the other enriching forms of prayer like scripture, sacraments and worship. Meditation does not replace other forms of prayer. Quite the reverse, it revives their meaning.
Finally - but this is central to any understanding of meditation - we meditate in order to take the attention off ourselves. (Jesus said, leave self behind). In the Christian tradition, contemplation is seen as a grace and as a reciprocal work of love. Not surprisingly, then, if we find we become more loving people as a result of meditating this will express itself in all our relationships, our work and our sense of service especially to those in any kind of need.
The Christian Meditation Group in our parish meets every Saturday at 5:15 pm for an hour or so. You can contact Maureen on 93232 93331 and join us in this experience of praying, which is “a pearl of great price” but comes to you absolutely free of cost.
CHRISTIAN MEDITATION
PROGRAM
Saturday, 13th July Fr. K.T. Emmanuel will take a session on “A Quest for Contemplative Spirituality”. If interested, please register before 10th July with Maureen D’Sa (9323293331)
PARENTS’ DAY
Sunday, 21st July Anyone wanting to participate, please contact the Youth.
VIANNEY DAY
Sunday, 4th August Anyone wishing to volunteer or put up an item, please contact your core group member.
Forthcoming Events:
CELEBRATIONS
HOLY NAME RECORD HOLY NAME RECORD10 11
EIGHT YEARS AGO A NEW PRIEST CAME TO OUR PARISH, AND I FELL IN LOVE
At first glance he seemed large and lugubrious. Even a bit ungainly. But there was something about him that captivated me and I asked for an introduction. He was very polite and stepped forward to take my hand, but his response was disinterested, almost dismissive. I was piqued. I am usually well received and most are happy to make my acquaintance. I may not be outgoing but neither am I unfriendly. And, in this case, I put on my best smile and offered an enthusiastic ‘hello, so pleased to meet you.’
I volunteered some small talk, but there was none forthcoming in return – just a glance to concede his awareness of my presence and my voice. He was young; not yet old enough for the taciturnity he projected. So how could I make him notice me, pay me more attention?
I began to look out for him so as to make it seem as if I had bumped into him just by chance. At every opportunity, I offered a warm smile and an even warmer ‘hello’. All I received was a perfunctory glance in return. Sometimes, there seemed to be a glimmer of something more. Perhaps an attempt to take the conversation beyond the initial overtures, but that was all it was. He would shuffle a little closer, rearrange his features, give the impression that he was clearing his throat and then, nothing. He would relapse into a personal reverie.
What were his interests? How did he pass his time? Perhaps if I could get a handle on these, I would be able to excite his attention. He was definitely not shy. One time I touched him, letting my hand linger just a fraction longer than necessary and he did not withdraw. But
neither did he react. Indifference? To me? Surely not!
It had been a very long time since I lost my heart so thoroughly and I am not one to give up easily. A visit to his home might constitute an invasion of privacy, so I dropped in at the workplace instead.Once again, he was very polite and rose to receive me, but it was his colleagues who were happy to converse with me while he
returned to his seat and an inner world. C o n t e m p l a t i o n seems to be his forte.
His colleagues love him too. They do not find him as remote as I do, and prefer to term him placid and easy-going. They were made happy just by his presence. I am not so easily satisfied. I found out what he liked best and took my leave. On my next visit, I took him a gift. He accepted it willingly, took it to his place where he examined it most thoroughly, giving it all his attention. He followed this up by a thoughtful glance in my direction. Hopefully, I had found a chink in his armour and the next time he would be a little more welcoming, a little
more interactive. With time, I would be able to make him like me at least a little. I would have to be satisfied with only 'a little', for I knew that he belongs to another and I could never make him completely mine.
He was just two then. He is ten now. And over eight delightful years, Tuck and I have become the best of friends. Thankfully I will not have to miss him, as he will still accompany Fr Nigel to the Catholic Communication Centre on working days.
- WENDY CHAVES
BOOK REVIEW FOR ALL THE SAINTS - Homilies for Saints’ and Holy Days – Herbert O’Driscoll. Pub Cowley Publications, Massachusetts, USA. pp147
This title was one of those random purchases at a book sale which turned out to be the most marvellous good fortune. There was no time to browse, the title appealed, and at just Rs.50/- it was a steal.
At the outset, it is necessary for would be readers to know that the author is an Anglican priest and there are points of dogma which may not be in consonance with the teachings of the Catholic Church, but in the main there is so much richness to be found, as in much of Christian literature that is written by a heart that is rooted in Christ.
The title too is a misnomer. It should read, ‘Meet the Saints of the Gospels’ because these are no sermons! O’Driscoll retraces the steps of Jesus and His followers in the Holy Land, which he is visiting at the time of writing this book, and immerses himself in the narrative so totally that he brings each person alive, in the here and now. It is a loving introduction to dear and close friends – real people who offer us ‘grace and insight’ for our own day. And you are drawn into an encounter that is almost tangible.
There are 29 ‘chapters’ in all, each running to roughly five pages and in them we meet Andrew, Thomas, Peter, Paul, Mark, Barnabas, James, Luke among others and we are also provided flashbacks to the Presentation, the Annunciation, the massacre of the Holy Innocents – which should give you an idea of the kind of engagement you can expect.
If you have ever wished to be transported back in time to the Gospels and to have mingled with those who surrounded Jesus, this book is for you. While the author describes the present scenes in the Holy Land, as they are, he also reconstructs for you the original setting, sometimes meeting the saints where they are and sometimes engaging with them in the contemporary scene. The book opens with Andrew. While we celebrate the saint on his day, how often do we pay attention to him when we encounter him in
the Gospels? There are three such meetings. Andrew is the ideal go-between, bringing others to Jesus. But there is one other quality of his that makes us sit up and take notice – when called, he follows Jesus ‘immediately’. Is it because he is foolishly impetuous or is it because he is open to grace, the loving call of God? The author invites us, too, to be open to this gift of grace, to radiate the same sincerity and vitality in our response to God’s life.
Through his encounter with Peter, the author makes us realise how equally important it is that we answer the question that was put to the big fisherman so many millennia ago – ‘Who do you say I am?’ When the response is an act of faith, as it was for Peter, it will transform the way we live our lives. O’Driscoll exchanges words with Paul – something I tend to do myself whenever I read from the letters. Paul is crusty and impatient, as can be expected, railing against the stubbornness of those who are slow to accept Christ. And yet, his message to the Corinthians is what he reinforces. Loving and being loved is the most important thing of all. It is not enough to know things only in your mind, you also have to know them in your heart.
It would be impossible to dwell on each of the 29 chapters here with each of their messages rooted deep in the Gospel narratives. But the foregoing encounters should give you an idea – somewhat inadequate – of what it means to live the ‘immersion’ story. To round off this review, I’ll leave you with ‘words’ from Mary, at the Presentation: ‘God comes in the most ordinary ways and in the most ordinary things and at the most ordinary moments…(people) want a mysterious and majestic God…but the mystery and majesty are always disguised by the ordinary and most people can’t see through the disguise.’ That’s certainly an eye-opener.
If you have found this equal parts review and reflection, put it down to the influence of the book – it has that effect on you.
- WENDY CHAVES
HOLY NAME RECORD HOLY NAME RECORD12 13
NAMESAnna Mary Aashish DavidAndrew Gabriel DasShraddha KadamMyrna Harish PujariSejal RajputSuvarna Edward FernandesJenny Anthony FernandesSujata Mohan JosephMohan Kamal JosephAzai Shaikh
Ryan RajputLittyasaki Pujary
BORN ON14.1.201924.12.201826.12.199022.8.198328.10.198218.7.197615.8.19719.12.197723.2.197819.4.2019
6.6.200717.5.2015
BAPTISED ON3.3.201928.4.201921.4.201921.4.201921.4.201921.4.201921.4.201921.4.201921.4.20191.6.2019
2.6.201916.6.2019
PARENTSAashish & CharmaineAlderich Vincent & Zina MarthaPrasad & Manisha Dnyaneshwar & Rosemary AmbaleDilip & Madhu RajputMohan & Shashikala KoliAmar & Jakubai SinghW/o Mohan Kamal Joseph Kamal Joseph Sameer Suheal &Blondie JasmiinaAmit & SejalHarish & Myrna
AGE608481717089899089
NAMESWilson Andrew Rebello & Rachna ParekhGlenn Rodrigues & Merlyn ZabethSameer Suheal Shaikh & Blondie Jasmina FernandesHarish Jaya Pujary & Myrna
NAMESSunita BanerjeeAngelo D’SouzaPhilomena Francis LoboCruzo MirandaSandra Eurelia D’SouzaPhilomena ToscanoHilda GoveasVirginia Doris Pereira Celestine Andrade
DATE OF MARRIAGE3.3.201927.4.20191.6.201916.6.2019
DIED IN CHRIST
BORN IN CHRIST
… with a serious tone
MILESTONES
HUMOUR
UNITED IN CHRIST
DATE19.2.20194.3.201919.3.20193.4.201928.4.201929.4.20196.5.201917.6.201923.6.2019
Contributed byMargaret Da CostaRECIPES
INGREDIENTS: 250 gm baby potatoesSalt1/4 tsp sugar
THE MATTHEWS - Those people who come to Church with their mats, so after praising they start to doze off...
THE MARKS - They are those who purposely come to mark the grammar /mistakes of the Preacher
THE LUKES - These people just come to Church to look at the outfits of others.
THE JOHNS - For these people they come to join the Church to fill the auditorium.
THE ROMANS - They are those who like roaming about and standing outside (Outstanding Catholics) during Church service.
But Beloved there is a group of people called THE ACTS - For these Brothers and Sisters, Faith is in actions. They are participators not spectators. They listen to the Word of God and act on it. HOPE YOU KNOW WHERE YOU STAND - Which Group are you in?
Aloo and Dal ki Tikki
1/2 tsp red chilli flakes1/2 tsp turmeric powder1 tbsp semolina (sooji)1 1/2 tbsp ghee2 - 3 green chillies, finely chopped1 1/2 tbsp garlic, finely chopped
METHOD:1. Scrub and steam the potatoes till they're tender. Cool and peel them.2. Take a bowl and mix salt (to taste), sugar, chilli flakes, turmeric powder and semolina together. Coat the potatoes well with this mixture.3. Heat the ghee on a pan and saute the green chillies and garlic for 10 seconds. Add the spiced potatoes and cook on low heat for 6-8 minutes. Keep tossing and take off heat when the potatoes have browned and semolina is crisp.4. Serve hot with lime wedges.
Chicken Pakoda INGREDIENTS : ½ kg chicken (boneless)To taste Salt1 tsp ginger garlic paste2 cups gram flour (besan)1 tsp red chilli flakes1 tsp cumin seeds (crushed) 1 tsp coriander seeds (crushed)1 cube chicken powder (Maggi)1 tsp dried mango powder (amchoor)2 tsp anardana (pomegranate seeds)A pinch of baking soda2 tbsp each green coriander and mint
leaves chopped8 tbsp oil approximately
METHOD :1. Marinate chicken with salt and ginger-garlic paste and leave for 10 minutes.2. In a separate bowl, mix the other ingredients.
3. Make batter by adding water.4. Dip chicken pieces in batter and deep fry.5. You can serve with green chutney.
Bangbang Batata
INGREDIENTS: 500 gms boiled mashed potatoes, 3 white bread slices
Salt and red chilli to taste, Pinch of Garam masala1/2 tsp cumin powder1/2 tsp coriander powder1/2 cup chana dal (parboiled)green chilli, finely choppedLemon juiceCoriander
METHOD:1. Crumble bread slices.2. Add mashed potatoes, chana dal, coriander leaves, lemon juice and chilies.3. Spice it up with cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, salt and few drops of oil.4. Mix it well.
5. Shape into round flat patties and fry golden brown.
The first 6 New Testament group of people who come to Church each Sunday. They are:
HOLY NAME RECORD HOLY NAME RECORD14 15
LENTEN YOUTH RETREAT
STATIONS OF THE CROSS - A HOLY NAME YOUTH PRESENTATION
YOUTH PAGE
The 2019, 3-day Lenten Youth Retreat held at the Holy Name School Hall was a wonderful experience, not only for those rooted strongly in their faith but also for those still discovering their faith in Christ.
The first day aimed at helping the youth reflect on how to adequately live for Christ, our Saviour. This beautiful evening began with an hour of praise and worship followed by an enlightening talk by Deacon Ivan Fernandes, who broadened the meaning of faith in Christ and at the same time focused on the current state of faith among Christians. This concluded with the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the most unique way possible. The connect, peace and inner joy experienced during the adoration was enhanced by the soothing hymns playing in the background.
The following evening began with the testimony of a young individual after which there was praise and
worship. Then we were introduced to the Taizé mode of Worship. A meaningful show/play was put up by a few youth from St. Andrew’s College, Bandra which left us mesmerized. The theme behind this act was “Quo vadis” - meaning “Where are you going?“ The main highlight of the evening was an hour of adoration and Stations of the Cross. The Stations of the Cross made us reflect on our behaviour, actions, deeds, and lastly our connect and faith in Jesus.
The last day began with another testimony, followed by praise and worship. We all made a good Confession after which was the Eucharistic celebration by his Lordship Bishop Barthol Barretto.
‘Lenten Youth Retreat’ was indeed a spiritual and peaceful experience. On behalf of the youth of the Holy Name Church, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to every single person from bishop, priest, helpers to the lovely people from different parishes who worked behind the scene to put this up.
Before ending this let’s have a look at this -
Hello, I’m miss hypocrisy
I wake up every morning,
I wash the sleep from my eyes
I wash the dirt off my face
I whisper a little prayer to God
And I’m off to work
But before I end my day
I visit the church
I listen to the Gospel
I wish a long list of things from God
Then what’s next
I step out of church
I look around and whisper to one another about one another
I get back home and
Before bed I pray again
Then wake up the next morning
And continue the cycle again
Let’s all reflect and think about this for a moment. Is this what we’ve become? If we have ….it’s time to change. And I for one have learned this.
- RANICE GOVEAS
Every year the youth of the parish presents the Lord’s Passion in a unique way. This year there was an enactment of the stations of the Cross.
The Way of the Cross which marks the final hours of Jesus. The youth were determined to do a good job of this. Long hours of practice were spent to perfect each and every role. Every aspect, right from directing to make-up and costumes were effectively woven in. Jason Noronha’s portrayal of Our beleaguered Lord was heart-rending. Every scream pierced the hearts of the congregation. Janies Goveas’ portrayal of Mary made the congregation tear up. The Passion of our Lord was made
CRAFT SUNDAYCHILDREN’S PAGEThe Summer Vacation Programme of the Parish started off on Sunday, 5th May 2019, with Craft Sunday, an Art and Craft session for children of the Parish. Around 40 children, aged between 5 and 12 years attended the session conducted by Vanessa Ryan, who was ably assisted by Leela and a few volunteers.
A snack was first served, after which the children were split up into groups of 6. Art and craft material, generously sponsored by Vanessa was then distributed, making the children very excited and enthusiastic. The boys opted for the colouring and collage work of a goldfish in a bag while most of the girls were taught beading and jewellery - making. The children learned to accomplish goals and take pride in their achievement. They proudly displayed their works of art and went home happy and contented.
- NITA JOSEPH
- MARYANN LOBO
real. The physical pain He endured, His condemnation and how He was mocked at by the screaming mob of the Jewish elders and scribes urging the Roman Pontius Pilate to crucify Jesus and release Barabbas were well-
played by Dhvanil, Rohan, Joshua D’Silva and Simon respectively. Veronica (Nikita D’Silva) touched hearts with her soothing melodious voice. The hymns sung by the choir added a splendid dimension to every scene and made them a harmonious whole.
Special mention must be made of Joshua D’Silva, Vanessa Quadros and Janies Goveas who directed the entire Way of the Cross. Ranice Goveas artfully made Jesus’s wounds look realistic and she also managed costumes and props.
Thank you to each and every youth member who made this enactment
a huge success by their presence.
Printed at GEMINI PRINTING PRESS, Fort. Tel: 22046595Designed by
