PALLOTTI NOTES 1

LENT TO EASTER :LENT TO EASTER :LENT TO EASTER :LENT TO EASTER :LENT TO EASTER :PREPPREPPREPPREPPREPARARARARARAAAAATION FORTION FORTION FORTION FORTION FORCELEBRCELEBRCELEBRCELEBRCELEBRAAAAATIONTIONTIONTIONTIONIt hardly seems that Christmas is over andalready we are in the midst of Lent. Such issometimes the case with the moveable feastsof the Liturgical year. Only seven weeks intoOrdinary Time and Ash Wednesday wasbeckoning us to the annual spiritual journeyof repentance, conversion, and rededicationto the mysteries to which we were firstintroduced when we were baptized.“Remember, Man, that thou art dust andunto dust thou shalt return!”.“Repent and believe in theGospel!”. Both of theseacclamations broke into our post-Christmas lull and once againreminded us to be ever – poised tobe in the service of the Lord, to beon the “Battlefield” for our Lord. OurMarching orders don’t come on ourtime schedule but on the Lord’s. Thegreat question to be answered iswhether or not we are ready torespond.One of the great benefits of theLiturgical Calendar is that it structuresthe faith and prayer life of the Churchin such manner that the SacredMysteries of salvation are regularly placedbefore our hearts and minds forcontemplation, prayer, and active response.It goes without saying that this quality of theLiturgical life of the Church will only have animpact on the lives of those who activelyintegrate it into their own spiritual lives. Inother words, if one is to live a fully catholicspiritual life, keeping in mind that the spirituallife itself must be integrated into every other

aspect of one’s earthly sojourn, then onemust live a truly Liturgical life. Hence theseasons celebrated by the Church must alsobe celebrated by the believer, individually, inthe home, in school or work place, whereverthe Christian finds him or herself.That is why, even though it seems thatChristmas was just yesterday, we Catholicsmust now be fully in tune with the spirit, thethemes, the signs and symbols, and themeaning of Lent, as Lent leads us throughthe purgative experience so necessary for atruly meaningful and rightly joyful celebration

of the Easter mystery. Our Christiancalling and our Catholic faith requireus to be in a state of extendedmeditation on the mystery of Jesus’Passion and death, as that mysteryis unfolded during Lent. This becomesever more clear as the Lenten Seasonculminates with Holy week and theuniquely beautiful and instructivecelebrations of the Easter Triduum.The Catholic who opts out of thesecelebrations is like the student whoskips class. When exam time comes,he just won’t be prepared.The parish team wishes you a Holyand Joyful season of Lent, a time inwhich you grow closer to the Lord

and leave sin behind. May the grace Godgives us during this season of Lent not be invain.

Fr. Claudy Vas- Parish Priest

“Remember“Remember“Remember“Remember“Remember,,,,,Man, thatMan, thatMan, thatMan, thatMan, thatthou artthou artthou artthou artthou artdust anddust anddust anddust anddust andunto dustunto dustunto dustunto dustunto dustthou shaltthou shaltthou shaltthou shaltthou shaltreturreturreturreturreturn!”n!”n!”n!”n!”.....“Repent“Repent“Repent“Repent“Repent

andandandandandbelieve inbelieve inbelieve inbelieve inbelieve in

thethethethetheGGGGGospel!”ospel!”ospel!”ospel!”ospel!”.....

Editorial

Editorial BoardFr. Siran Rebello : EditorMrs. Jolly Paul : MemberJoseph Michael : Member

PALLOTTI NOTES 2

The promise of God’s loveThe promise of God’s loveThe promise of God’s loveThe promise of God’s loveThe promise of God’s loveOnce there was a man who felt terribly guiltyabout a sin he had committed as a young man,because he thought God could not forgive him.One day he heard of an elderly lady who hadconversations with God, and finally he gatheredenough courage to visit her. “I tell you, nowis the time of God’s favor, now is the dayof salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2)Over a cup of tea, he asked if she could ask Goda question for him. “I would be happy to.” sheanswered.“What would you like me to ask Him?”“Well,” the man began, “could you please askHim what sin it was that I committed as a youngman?” The woman, who was quite curious bythis time, readily agreed. A few weekspassed, and the man again went tovisit this woman. After another cupof tea he timidly asked. “Have youhad any conversations with Godlately?”The woman said that she had, andthat she had asked God what sin hehad committed as a young man. Theman, nervous and afraid, hesitated amoment and then asked, “well, whatdid God say?”“He said He couldn’t remember,” shereplied.The Bible tells us that because Jesus tookthe punishment for our sins, God promises,“I will forgive their iniquity, and I willremember their sin no more.” (Jeremiah31:34) hence God promises “Because Ilive, you shall live also.” (John 14:19) Jesusdoes not look at us as failures, even though wesin from time to time.“Because I live, you shall live also.” (John 14:19).We need these words which will help us to endurethe changing world around us that is full of darkand insecure; and which is the present as a

passing episode. The fact is that life is eternal;because our Savior died and arose again onEaster day after He was crucified; to give newlife to all of us in this uncertain present, in a world

of sin and strife.Our God is love, and His love is verydifferent from human love. God’s loveis unconditional, and it is not based onfeelings or emotions. He doesn’t loveus because we’re lovable or because wemake Him feel good; He loves usbecause He is love. He created us tohave a loving relationship with Him, andhe sacrificed His own son Jesus torestore that relationship.The Messiah would offer His life as a

sacrifice for the sins of mankind so that all peoplemight be saved. “But he was wounded forour transgressions; he was crushed for ouriniquities; upon him was the punishmentthat brought us peace, and with his stripeswe are healed. Out of the anguish of hissoul he shall see and be satisfied; by hisknowledge shall the righteous one, myservant, make many to be accountedrighteous, and he shall bear their iniquities”(Isaiah 53:5, 11). “And it shall come to passon everyone who calls on the name of theLord shall be saved.” (Joel 2:32)“He bore our sins on the cross, that we might

Easter

“I will forgive“I will forgive“I will forgive“I will forgive“I will forgivetheir inquity,their inquity,their inquity,their inquity,their inquity,

and I willand I willand I willand I willand I willrememberrememberrememberrememberremember

their sin notheir sin notheir sin notheir sin notheir sin nomoremoremoremoremore

JeremiahJeremiahJeremiahJeremiahJeremiah31:3431:3431:3431:3431:34

PALLOTTI NOTES 3

die to sin and live to righteousness. By hiswounds we have been healed. For Christ alsosuffered for our sins, the righteous for theunrighteous, that he might bring us to God...”(1 Peter 2:24; 3:18). “For there is no distinctionbetween Jew and Greek; White or Black; thesame Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all whocall on him. For ‘everyone who calls on thename of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans10:12-13).So Let us turn from our sinful and selfish life-style, and accept Jesus as our Saviour, and knowGod’s incredible love poured out on you and me,and be washed by the blood of Jesus. Let usknow the fulfillment of being Christ’s hands andfeet in this world and the sure hope and peaceof eternal life in Jesus Christ. PRAISE THELORD.

- Mrs. Priya D’souzaParish Councilor, St. Jude Community

���

Easter

“We the World”Life is a story, the one written by God,We are his characters, I’m his knight with a sword.I fight for peace, I fight for justice andmy sword’s my pen, I write to kill an evil apprentice.He’s claiming lives, like on a hunting spreeHe marks his entrance, with death and calamity.But this young apprentice, is the work of our own handsHe’s wild as strong fire, he meets ice where ever he lands.Mother nature grieves at our state, God spoke,we didn’t hear, but its never too late.So get to you feet dear people, we can’t let the evil win,We have to save our world, save ourselves from all madeup sin.The world can fulfil our needs, don’t burden her,She can’t do so for our greeds.So here I write to you, A knight sent by God,shy away from your evil deeds, expect no reward.The world’s not at our disposal, we have to use it well,Cause we haven’t seen our future, so now we have toact and tell.

- Jalasha D’costa���

FFFFFrom Dust Yrom Dust Yrom Dust Yrom Dust Yrom Dust You Are, toou Are, toou Are, toou Are, toou Are, toDust YDust YDust YDust YDust You Shall Rou Shall Rou Shall Rou Shall Rou Shall Return!eturn!eturn!eturn!eturn!On Ash Wednesday, we are all signed with asheson our foreheads and reminded of our mortality.The discomfort and anxiety an announcementby the parish one Sunday, about not gettingburial space after a year or two has forced meto invite you to a debate.Burial is a tradition of Judaism. Islam andChristianity which are offshoots of Judaism followit, along with many other traditions. That is theprecise reason why Christians are buried and notcremated. In today’s day and era when spacecomes at a premium, there is hardly any spacefor the living, leave alone the dead. This is whatprompted a suggestion from the Marol St. JohnEvangelist Church, that our expanding Parishneeds to look at other places to give the dead arespectful burial. This is not a crisis that only ourparish is facing, but many new and upcomingparishes.The parishes in the Vasai diocese faced with asimilar space crunch strongly advocate, buryingthe dead wrapped in a shroud and minus a coffin.This is to facilitate quick decomposition of thecorpse and making the grave available for reuseat the earliest. These churches have a commonbier (coffin), made of wood or metal which thebereaved family hires, for laying the dead out instate, at home and carrying it to the church.What about cremation? If what remains behindat death is only our mortal bodies whilst our soulis enjoying immortality, (This is our Christianbelief), why not consign ourselves to dust at theearliest? Remember donation of organs, like eyes,kidneys etc. on death of a loved one helps givea new lease of life to another person.I am forcing one and all to confront these deadlyrealities, so that we start working at solutions atthe earliest rather than run around in circles Letus not forget that it is better to give a roseto the living, rather than a bouquet to thedead, and work towards making life worth livingfor all.

- Contributed by Ms. Caroline D’souza.

PALLOTTI NOTES 4

Faith

FFFFFaith Celebration Dayaith Celebration Dayaith Celebration Dayaith Celebration Dayaith Celebration Day7th & 8th7th & 8th7th & 8th7th & 8th7th & 8thSunday school in our parish has always attemptedto make Christ’s message relevant to children intheir everyday life. This is also true of our diocesewhich every year assigns the secondary section theFaith celebration Day wherein 6 to 7 parishes froma deanery are asked to select a topic usually onsocial issues that add value to our lives and presentit on this day. Std. 7th & 8th of Andheri east deanerycelebrated their faith celebration day on 1st Feb,’09in our church. Along with our parish, otherparticipants included were St. John the Evangelist(Marol), Our Lady of Health (Sahar), Sacred Heart(Mahakali), Holy Family (Chakala) and Infant Jesus(Jogeshwari)It was an exuberant environment when the entirehall echoed with songs and praises of about 350odd children professing their faith. As the host, wetook the responsibility of the backdrop which wasdone beautifully emphasizing on the theme- Socialissues & Growth. The backdrop contained amagnificent globe depicting how God’s beautifulcreation was destroyed by man made maladies likepollution, inequality, terrorism, etc. There was apicture of a dove, surrounded by all 6 parish names;representing Holy Spirit calling us all to be leadersand to bring a change in this world. Otherresponsibilities like liturgy, snacks, etc, wereefficiently shared by others making the event asymbol of true team effort.The day started solemnly with the Eucharistcelebrated by Fr. Claudy Vas, followed by someaction songs which children thoroughly enjoyed.After which it was time for presenting the projectsthat were a result of 8 months of combined hardwork of teachers as well as students. The topicsfor this year were Career, Leadership, Inequality,Poverty, Environment and Pollution that focused onall the social issues and the need for change andgrowth in the society.Our Parish selected “Pollution” as the projecttopic. After a thorough field work of visiting areaslike MIDC, Military Road, etc., that are well knownhubs of unattended beautifully as a musicalenactment. The message we chose to pass on, was

how man inorder to satisfy his wants and needsmisuses nature thereby causing pollution, whichinturn hits back in the form of different harmfulillnesses; It is Mother Earth who comes to man’srescue and teaches him how to use the resourcesoptimally and to save our planet earth. The skittruly inspired most of them who were present andwas also appreciated by the deanery. A heartfeltthank you to all our 7th and 8th class teachers andour secondary section head Sharon Sequeira formaking this project a success.The day finally ended with a brain teaser for thechildren, a bible quiz competition conducted by ourlay co-ordinator Kevin Fernandes and Br. Vivek.The purpose of the event was served with learningand knowledge spread all over. Students went homewith the message of respect for individuals, societyand nature. To sum it up, respect for God begins byrespecting his beautiful creation-our Mother Earth,and that was conveyed to one and all. The eventsuccessfully created an environment of motivationand positivity not just for children who are the futurecaretakers but also for adults who are the presentcaretakers of this mother earth!

- Rochelle Mendonca, Catechist���

Dare to BelieveDare to BelieveDare to BelieveDare to BelieveDare to BelieveIn today times many people are completely wornout due to the different challenges in life. Its veryeasy to get happy when things are always goingour way, but when things don’t go our way we oftengive up.At this I think about Daniel. The King of Babylonhad a dream which no magician or enchanter couldthink of interpreting because the King had said, “Tellme the dream and interpret it for me.” Since nomagician could possibly do this, the King grew wildand ordered the execution of all the wise men ofBabylon. Daniel being one of the wise men couldhave easily given up and gone around discouraged.The Bible says that Daniel could understand dreamsand visions of all kinds. [Daniel 1:17]. But it didn’tsay that he could tell someone’s dream without theperson even telling it. But Daniel was bold and shout-hearted. Instead of getting discouraged he went

PALLOTTI NOTES 5

Faith

boldly to the King and asked for time to interpretthe dream. [Daniel 2:76]. Daniel dared to believefor the impossible. He knew if his God could tellhim the interpretation of his dreams and visionsthen why not the dream of the King. Daniel tookthis bold step of Faith although he knew he hadn’tdone such a thing before. This was like as thoughDaniel was walking on water.There was another man walking on water in theNew Testament and his name was Peter. Whatmoved Peter to do such a thing? The Bible saysthat the moment Jesus said to Peter “come onwater”, he got down out of the boat, waked on waterand come towards Jesus [Mathew 14:29]. Thinkabout it for a moment. It was right time. Peter couldhardly see Jesus clearly from the Boat. Infact thedisciples thought at first he was a ghost. But deepdown, Peter knew it was his Lord. He dared tobelieve. As a result he did something impossible.Many a times we often give up on those dreamsthat God has placed in our hearts. Just because wecan’t see a way doesn’t really mean there is noway. The scripture says to trust in the Lord with allyour heart and lean not on your own understanding.Its time to lean on God than on our understating.Dare to believe, dare to dream God - size dreams.For only people with God size dreams lean on Godto make the impossible possible. That’s what Danieldid and that’s what Peter did. Are you ready to bethe next? As you begin to put your trust in God andmeditate on his word habitually you’ll see him takeyou to places you have never dreamed of.

- Paquita Fernandes���

Appadi PAppadi PAppadi PAppadi PAppadi Podu Todu Todu Todu Todu Tamil Catsamil Catsamil Catsamil Catsamil CatsBringing up our little Tamil buddies to live asChristian. We the Tamil CATS had started Catechismon 1st June’08. Where 65 students had enrolledtheir names and we are about 12 catechists to guidethem.In this academic year, we conducted many activities like:1) SPORTS DAY : where all our TAMIL buddies

had participated in each and every sport.2) Vacations are the time where kids learn many

new things by joining some classes. But we

organized one week ‘COOL WINTER CAMP’ forour Tamil kids and motivated them by doingmany activities.

3) We celebrated 25th week of our Catechism on16th Nov’08 and for this day we had trainedour students to say their prayers in English ndcelebrated mass in English.

4) Since Christmas was nearby, we prepared ourTamil kids for confession. We also conductedCrib Competition and Christmas Tree Party on26th Dec’08. All the kids had dressed up in Redand White outfits with Santa caps and enjoyedthe party.

5) Everyone begins NEW YEAR with newresolution, but we began by going for a PICNICwith Fr. Anto. We had gone to Goa for 4 daysand had a blast. It was an unforgettable Tourfor us.

6) After coming back from Goa, we hadcelebrated our traditional festival ‘Pongal’ on18th Jan’09 with High Mass followed by culturalprograms. Our Tamil kids had put up a greatshow by exhibiting their talents.

We also encourage our Tamil kids those whoregularly attend Sunday School, by giving gifts everyfirst Sunday of the month. These activities whichwe conducted during this academic year would beimpossible without the support of our Fathers. Weare grateful to Fr. Claudy, Fr. Siran and Fr. Anto fortheir support.

- Amala, Catechist

TAMIL ZONAL YOUTHWe Tamil Zonal Youth are glad, that we havecompleted our 12 weeks of youth session. We areabout 38 of us. Past 12 weeks, we have learnt a lotof new things, shared our experience with eachother. On 21st Feb, Saturday evening at 6.00 we allyouth visited the “Nav Jyoti” Ashram, just behindour church. On that day, we had conducted games,dance for the children, shared snacks, played withthem too. It was indeed the most memorableexperience we all had with them.We, Tamil Zonal Youth are trying our best incontinuing to move ahead and serving others wholeheartedly.

- Chanthini

PALLOTTI NOTES 6

St. Vincent Pallotti

Catechesis : A FCatechesis : A FCatechesis : A FCatechesis : A FCatechesis : A Foundationoundationoundationoundationoundationto Fto Fto Fto Fto FaithaithaithaithaithThis year marks the 25th anniversary of theCatechesis of St. Vincent Pallotti Parish, Marol. Ourcatechesis has enabled all the faithful of our parishto discover themselves their special relationship toGod through the participation in the liturgy andcelebration of the Sacraments.Catechesis is an education in the faith of children,young people and adults which includes especiallyof Christian doctrine in a systematic way with aview to initiating them into the fullness of Christianlife. In the formation of catechesis absolute priorityis given to diocesan pastoral program. ThroughSunday schools and youth programs in our parish,basic instructions of Christian faith is given. Thishelps the children to do well in every aspect of life.The primary catechists for children are their parents.It is important that every parent teach their childrenabout the meaning of life. They must instruct theirchildren in the faith. This can be done veryeffectively through regular Bible reading andcatechism- practices that one time were thedistinguishing mark of a Christian home.The second emphasis of catechism centers on therole of the church. Here the role of the Catechists aswell as the goal of the Sunday school program, shouldfurther and support those efforts at Catechism ideallybegun in the home. Parents should not assume thatthe church’s role is to supply the catecheticalinstruction that they as parents make little or no effortto provide at home. Just as you cannot expect yourchildren to do well in school without the activeinvolvement of the parents at home after school, sotoo, parents cannot expect their children to grow infaith as they should apart from concerted effort toprovide regular catechism in the home.One of the by-products of parents taking an active rolein catechizing this kind, is that they also catechizethemselves in the process! In order to teach your kidsand to be able to answer questions, which are oftenmore direct and difficult than those asked by many adults,you must learn the material for yourself.On this occasion I congratulate all the catechistsfor the hard work .The parish has been overjoyedby the contribution of catechists. May you be blessedas you lead others to Christ.

- Fr. Claudy Vas���

CelebratingCelebratingCelebratingCelebratingCelebratingThe FThe FThe FThe FThe Feast Theeast Theeast Theeast Theeast TheSt. VSt. VSt. VSt. VSt. VincentincentincentincentincentPPPPPallotti Wallotti Wallotti Wallotti Wallotti Way!ay!ay!ay!ay!St. Vincent Pallotti is hailed asthe primary promoter of LayApostolate. In other words hestrongly advocated the activeparticipation of the Laity in the matters of the churchand Parish Community. It is only right then that hisFeast which is our Parish Feast, was celebrated onSunday 25th January, 2009 with a lot of ParishCommunity involvement. The nine day Novena thatpreceeded the Feast had different aspects ofSt. Vincent Pallotti’s ministry focused on. The tridiumsaw a packed church listening and contemplatingon the homilies preached by Fr. ShijuThe hoisting of the flag with St. Vincent Pallotti’simage screen printed on it marked the start of thenovenas. Despite the hustle and bustle of life foundtime to make the foil streamers that decorated theoutside of the church as they fluttered in the breezethey spread a feeling of festivity and fervor.The brass band that played after the feast Day 7a.m. and 8.30 a.m. Masses, gave one a feeling ofbeing taken back to the little hometowns of Mangloreand Goa. The one thing missing was the‘Cardiobodios’ (Jaggery coated gramflour sticks) thatare found in stalls on feast days. It was hearteningto se the faithful flock to the cafeteria after themorning Masses and share the festive spirit withother parishioners.The evening Variety Entertainment Programme wastruly enjoyable and Cafeteria was well appreciated.This celebration was a welcome change after the 5Day Fun-Fair that use to herald in the feast of St.Vincent Pallotti in our Parish. No doubt there wasno money to be made, just costs to be recovered. Ithing this was a very sensible gesture by the parishin this day of recession and “pink slips”. A sensitivityof this kind is an answer to the question. “Whatwould Jesus do to celebrate the parish feast, if hewas around today.”

���

PALLOTTI NOTES 7

YYYYYouthful Youthful Youthful Youthful Youthful Year 08-09ear 08-09ear 08-09ear 08-09ear 08-09After organising events such as Parents Dayin July and Tournament in August, inSeptember the Youth Co-group decided tohave some programme for teachers onTeachers’ Day. So on 7th September, allteachers of St. Vincent Pallotti Parish wereinvited to spend some time and enjoy withthe youth. Beginning at 7 p.m. we sang asong for the teachers followed by somegames that we played with them. Theteachers enjoyed every bit of it. They willnever forget it for the rest of their lives.In November, we thought of having something for children or children’s Day i.e. 14thNov. so the youth group decided to spendsome time with the children of Sneha Sadan.Beginning at 5 p.m. we enjoyed a lot withthem and so did they. We began with a sing-song session, followed by games, antakshariand jam session. They all felt loved and caredby our presence with them. In the end,neither did they want to leave us, nor didwe. But we promised to meet them someother time very soon.Since half the year was over and after exams.in October, the youth co-group decided tohave a 1-day camp in our parish to bringabout a feeling of togetherness and bondingin the youth group. It was scheduled on 16thNovember, 2008. Beginning at 11 a.m. theyouth had a lot of fun, playing games andlearning to prepare various food items. Afterlunch, we played water games where a lot ofyouth enjoyed becoming wet and makingothers wet. To end the day, there would benothing better than having a bonfire at night.We enjoyed a lot where all the youth cametogether around the bonfire and were dancingand playing games. After dinner, all the youthwent home remembering every part of theday.

Very soon it was Christmas, so the youthco-group decided to have Dial-a-Santa whichwas again a great success. The response ofthe people was very good. Held on 22ndand 23rd December from 5 p.m. onwards.Santa made every person’s Christmas amemorable one. From young to the oldeveryone received gifts from Santa. I’m sure,no one will forget Santa and his Dial-a-Santafor upcoming years.Soon there was Senior Citizen’s Day on 27thDecember. So the youth were busy inpreparing for that day. A special mass wasconducted for them at 10 a.m. and a smallprogramme at 11 a.m. It consisted of a TamilDance, a Song sung by one of the youthand not forgetting, some Konkani Songs sungby the priests to make them feel at home.In the end, all of them enjoyed taking homesome memory of the programme with them.As mentioned in the Dial-a-Santa form, themoney which was collected from Dial-a-Santawas used for charity purpose. The youthgroup decided to go to the Home for theHandicapped at Cheshire Home. Mahakali on26th January 2009. Most of the youth whocame there enjoyed with every person there.We conducted some sing-song sessions andantakshari for them. We also saw variouspainting, clay mouldings, etc. prepared bythem. We were thrilled looking at all thesebeautiful things. That day, we enjoyed beingwith them.The youth group had to end due to upcomingexams. So after a whole year’s work wedecided to have our farewell party on 31stJanuary 2009. But all the above activitieswould not be possible without the whole youthgroup. KEEP IT UP!!!

- SANSOM LOBO, Youth Group���

Vinpal Youth

PALLOTTI NOTES 8

THE GOOD NEWS!!!THE GOOD NEWS!!!THE GOOD NEWS!!!THE GOOD NEWS!!!THE GOOD NEWS!!!CELEBRCELEBRCELEBRCELEBRCELEBRAAAAATING 25 YTING 25 YTING 25 YTING 25 YTING 25 Yearsearsearsearsearsof being J +veof being J +veof being J +veof being J +veof being J +veHuman news runs the risk of corruption,discontinuity and irrelevance. It can only be divinenews that promises purity, continuity and relevance.This Gospel News is the GOOD NEWS of JESUSCHRIST. Jesus Christ the same, yesterday, todayand forever. Catechizing and Proclaiming this GoodNews for 25 years has truly been a milestone, atime for jubilation.Nurturing and imparting Faith is a process that hasto be worked upon constantly. We are glad that theSunday school team of this parish has evolved andgrown to be an institution over the last 25 years.An institution, not only built with bricks but also “by”and “with” people of faith. The last 25 years hasseen several students blossom as Catechists. It isheartening to see this change from being a menteeto a mentor of Faith and as catechists this is exactlywhat we are called for. Over the last 25 years, atleast 20 Catechists have certified themselvesthrough the DCC in sharpening their skills andchannelizing their talents towards faith formation.Credit is due to our mentors Fr Cleophus & FrAniceto Pereira & now Fr Terrance Murray who haveplayed a key role working in this direction.Our Silver Jubilee Celebration on The 7th December2008 encompasses all these achievements andchallenges that we have overcome as a team overthe last 25 years. As a fitting tribute to their activecontribution in Faith Development, we invited allthose who have been an integral part in this ministryat St Vincent Pallotti parish for the last 25 years tojoin in the celebrations.The celebrations began with a ThanksgivingEucharist that set the tone of gratitude to GOD forthe gift of our faith. The church backdrop capturedbeautifully our Trinitarian faith as given in thecatechism of the Catholic church (CCC 684). OurSunday School Director, Fr Siran Rebello broke theWord and was emphatic in impressing upon theneed for every baptized Christian to evangelize andbe part of the “GOOD NEWS”. A liturgy high oncreativity, ritual and community singing left us

touched. This was followed by a Faith Fusion titled“GOOD NEWS”, also presented graphically as anewspaper highlighting the Good News-JESUSCHRIST, news that we could all use during thesemoments of uncertainty in our city and captured inour newspapers.At the onset of Faith Fusion, we began by invokingGod’s blessings with the lighting of the Samay bythe Sunday School director, a Religious, a Catechist,a parent and a child.Little kids draped in traditional costume brought anair of grace and devotion as they danced to a bhajan.This was followed by a Fancy Dress presentation ofBiblical characters by primary students. The othercharacters were evened out by “EVE” in both, thefirst and second category. Besides the winners everychild was awarded a certificate of participation. RevFr Terrance Murray (Director of the DCC) thenhighlighted the importance of the catecheticalministry. He did well to encourage the catechists,the children and the faithful to launch out with faithin this ministry. He was then handed over a saplingfor his herculean task of nurturing the faithformation of the children of the Diocese. In keepingwith the diocesan theme of caring for Mother Earth(also an idea dear to the catechists of Pallotti parish)all our dignitaries were welcomed with saplingsinstead of bouquets.The highlight of the evening was a Musical thatshowcased the Catechetical activities of this parish.Like the beads of the rosary that knit together thevarious mysteries of our faith, the musical too,beaded together the joyful, sorrowful, glorious andluminous events of Sunday School over the last 25years.The stage lit up not just with lights and technological

Link with

PALLOTTI NOTES 9

gadgets, but also with 50 children presenting theenactment, bringing to surface their talents. Therewas an inevitable charm due to the melodioussinging. Alongside the stage the events depicted inmime were displayed on a visual screen. The finaleof the musical unfolded the Sunday School Logo ofthe parish and threw a call to every individual onbehalf of mother church to come forward in buildingthe community.Musical instruments then took center stage. Behindthem, our catechists took charge to bring harmonyin the air. This Jugalbandi of the Tabla, Violin,Guitars & Keyboard hit the right notes around. The15 mins AV presentation that followed, piecedtogether the moments of this long journey. Ex-Catechists were thrilled to see themselves onscreen.Every religion is characterized by a CREED. Thecreed of the Catholic Church is a solid foundationwhich is based on scripture and the teachings ofthe church. The catechists presented the NICENECreed in a fusion of Indian & Western dancemovements. Their presentation left everyonecharmed.The catechists in keeping with encouraging ourmission in society were not to be left behind. The

whole community had candles lit as a mark ofrespect for the armed forces who laid down theirlives in defence of Mumbai. A short clippingaccompanied by a prayer for peace set the tone fora spiritual finale. A rendition of the AVE MARIA inLatin touched a chord with everyone. This broughtthe program to a close as we thanked our audienceof 800 parishioners who always support ourventures. As Clifford, a Deanery team membersummed it up well, “The VINPAL CATECHISTs logoreads “Being J +ve”.J definitely means JESUS. J also stands for JOSHILA,JABARDAST and a JAWAAN group”While everyone moved out of the campus, our team,the dignitaries and all ourEx-Catechists assembled for an AGAPE meal. Likethe last supper which became a memorial, this mealwill long be remembered by the 85 present.The VINPAL CATECHISTs take this opportunity tothank one and all who have been part of this JESUSmovement. Last but not the least a word of gratitudeto Fr. Siran Rebello & our Parish Priest Fr. ClaudyVas for being the wind beneath our wings. There isno stopping us now, we will soar higher and weawait the golden moments….….JUBILATE!!!

- SUNDAY SCHOOL PASTORAL TEAM

Link with

Lenten Mission in English from 9th March to 14th March 2009���

7.30 pm 8:00 PM 8.30 pm Topic

9th March- MONDAY Praise and worship Fr K.T Emmanuel Adoration FamilyBy Grace By Grace

10th March Praise and worship Fr K.T Emmanuel Adoration MarriageTUESDAY By Grace By Grace

11th March Praise and worship Torchbearers Adoration PrayerWEDNESDAY By Grace for Christ By Grace

12th March Praise and worship Torchbearers Adoration YouthTHURSDAY By Grace for Christ By Grace

13th March Praise and worship Fr Warner Way of the Cross PenanceFRIDAY By Grace By Grace

14th March Praise and worship Fr Warner Adoration ServiceSATURDAY By Grace By Grace

PALLOTTI NOTES 10

Link with

knew that his basic identity was intact. As hewas suffering torture he could project himselflecturing to his students after his release, inhis minds eye, the very lessons he waslearning in the prison.

Though a series of disciplines, mental,emotional and moral and using memory andimagination he exercised his freedom until itgrew larger and larger till he had more freedomthan his captors’ liberty. They had liberty tochoose but he had more freedom. Hedeveloped the most basic habit of any personin any environment - the habit of beingproactive.

Like Franky we too can develope the personalfreedom in difficult circumstances. And whomwe can honestly that I am what I am todaybecause of the choice I made yesterday,that person in indeed to proactive and masterof his destiny

2) SEEK FIRST TO UNDERSTAND THANTO BE UNDERSTOODIf there is one thing that is most importantfor interpersonal relations to succeed I feel itwould be to seek first to understand and theto be understood.

Although most of us seem to pay attentionto others few people have training in listening.If I want to interact with someone I have totry to understand that person first by listeningto him. Very often we are filled with our ownrighteousness and being selfish, we expect

I can make a choiceI can make a choiceI can make a choiceI can make a choiceI can make a choiceHaving read the widely acclaimed book “THESEVEN HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVEPEOPLE” by Mn. Stephen Covey and itsimpact on me personally, I would like to sharehere two of those habits so that by thisawareness, and have a positive effect onour lives.

Mr. Covey narrates an incident that attracthim very much and was instrumental, heads,in writing the above book. He says while on avacation he happened to read the following“there is a gap or space between the stimulusand response and that the key to both ourgrowth and happiness is how we use thisspace.”

This will be clear as I mention the 2 habits :

1) BE PROACTIVEThe English dictionary describes a proactiveperson as one who is responsible for his/herlife. Our behaviour is a function of ourdecisions and not our condition. As proactivepersons we can subordinate an impulse to avalue is the essence of a proactive person.

Earlier when I read a statement by Mrs.Roosevelt who said “No one can hurt uswithout our consult”, I was a bit perplexedand could not buy into that statement. I waswondering how could this be till I read “TheSeven Habits” by Mr. Covey and the truthdawned on me who lighting. I then realizedthat just as I could choose to be miserableso too I could choose not to be miserable. Itis a choice I as a human being can make, achoice that Mr. Victor Francky and NaziPrisoner a psychiatric and Jew made, undersevere torture. In his book “Man’s searchfor meaning”, he says as a proactive personhe could control his mind under unimaginablecircumstances. One day he became awareof what he calls, “last human freedom”. He

PALLOTTI NOTES 11

to be understood and forget to understandothers and what they are trying to say. Hencewe need to develop skills of emphatheticlistening that will inspire openness and trust.By emphathetic listening I mean listening withthe intent to fully understand emotionally andintellectually but not necessarily agree; Asalesman sells products whereas aprofessional sells solutions to problems; allthis takes place because the later is anempathetic listener. People want to beunderstood and whatever time one takes todo this brings much greater returns in timeas you work for an accurate understandingof the problem.

As we learn to listen to others we will discovergreat differences in percepections. Ourpercepections can be vastly different andboth have lived with them for years takingthem as facts. These differences can besolved by using the second habit of seekingfirst to understand, and then to beunderstood.

I would like to conclude by saying that tounderstand others requires consideration andseeking to be understood. Courage andmaturity is a balance between these two. Isincerely feel convinced if we try to practicethese two habits, the effort will bring meaningto our lives and enable us to love and serveothers better.

- Henry Barretto

���

Link with

My RepentanceMy RepentanceMy RepentanceMy RepentanceMy RepentanceEvolutionEvolutionEvolutionEvolutionEvolutionOver the years, I have gone through arepentance evolution. As I reflect, I amreminded of the old Act of Contrition I wastaught as a young boy.

O my God, I am sorry and beg pardon forall my sins and detest them above all things

because they deserve Thy dreadfulpunishment, because they have crucified myloving Saviour Jesus Christ, and most of allbecause they offend Thy infinite goodnessand I firmly resolve, by the help of Thygrace, never to offend Thee again andcarefully to avoid the occasions of sin.

As a young boy, sinning was to be avoidedbecause they deserve Thy dreadfulpunishment. God was a police chief. All theelders around me; parents, teachers, etc.were all policemen who worked for Him. Ifany of these policemen saw me commit sin,it meant hell. So there was a sort of premiumon not getting caught. And those policemenused to be pretty vivid in their description ofwhat hell was like. No way would I want toend up there.

Spicing up this scene were also some storieswe heard as children. One such that comesto mind is how there was this guy, a verybad sinner, who repented at the moment ofdeath and went to heaven. At the sametime, there was this other guy who was goodthroughout his life but fell into sin just beforedeath and was condemned to hell. This kindof story had an attractive incentive to putoff repentance as I had no intention to dieso young.

As I grew into adolescence, I reached thesecond stage of my evolution. I started tofeel my sinning was unfair because they have

PALLOTTI NOTES 12

Link with

crucified my loving Saviour Jesus Christ. Ihad no business to be sinning since thatcaused Jesus to suffer. Being human Icouldn’t help sinning. At the same time, beinga teenager, I couldn’t stand injustice. Whyshould the wrong person be made to takethe punishment? Terribly unfair. But that wasthe system in place. I had no hope of Godtaking my advice and changing it. So theonly possible outcome was to feel guilt.

I had graduated from ‘repentance meansbeing sorry for getting caught’ to repentancemeans feeling guilty for what I have done’.

Today I repent for my sins because theyoffend Thy infinite goodness. God is love.He has created us in love, to manifest Hislove. It is no more the fear of hell. Hell infactis not so much the pain of hot flames butmore importantly, the absence of God. It isno more guilt about Jesus taking thepunishment on my behalf. That act must beseen in he context of God’s love whichprompted Him to send Jesus to make thatsupreme sacrifice. God love me regardlessof whether I’m naughty or nice. Like in theparable of the prodigal son, His arms arewide open to receive me back no matterwhat I’ve done. How then can I hurt a Godlike that?

Repentance is not just being sorry.Repentance is translated from the Greekword ‘metanoia’ which literally means changingone’s mind or a reversal of values. Sin causedus to walk away from God. Metanoia causesus to turn around and walk towards God. Itis a positive act of moving towards God ratherthan mere avoidance of a negative act ofsin, which logically implies standing in oneplace. Once we realize the enormity of God’slove for us and that sin offends Him, it is acomplete 180 degree shift in attitude.

As I go up this path, I must focus less onsins of commission, which are relatively easyto avoid. The focus is now on sins ofommission, which I easily commit day in andday out. At every eucharistic celebration weask pardon for what we have done and whatwe have failed to do. Am I sincerely sorryfor what I have failed to do? As a baptisedChristian I am called to be the salt, the light,the leaven. This is not an easy walk. In fact,it is humanly impossible. God never said itwould be easy. He only promises me His gracethat makes all things possible. As I recognisethe unconditional love of God for me His child,I must not pain Him in any way. I must tryto do His will at all times.

- Emilio Noronha���

PALLOTTI NOTES 13

Link with

PPPPPARISH SCC RLARISH SCC RLARISH SCC RLARISH SCC RLARISH SCC RLYYYYY

15TH February 2009 saw the parish of St.Vincent Pallotti agog in a gay and festive spirit.It was a special occasion when the Parishcame together to celebrate 10 years ofhaving Small Christian Communities and tomove on to form CLUSTER FAMILIES tostrengthen SCCs.

The backdrop both inside the church andoutside on the stage depicted and broughtout the theme very beautifully. Fr. GilbertD’Lima concelebrated the Holy Eucharistthanking God for immense blessings uponour parish, together with the Parish priestsincluding Fr. Patrick who was here with us.The procession and the lighting of the diyasby the Parish Councilors, the prayers of thefaithful in different languages and the themesong at the end of Mass added meaning tothe day’s event.

The entire cultural programme with theefficient comperes was wonderfully organized,bringing out the message of forming Clusterfamilies to strengthen SCCs. Each ParishCouncilor walked to the stage with a colorfuland decorated community placard. The talkshow hosted by Ms. Lorna D’Souza drovehome the message what SCCs are all about.

I am sure more efforts will be made to carryout all that was said and heard. The skits inEnglish, Konkanni and Marathi showcasedpeople’s talents. And the youth danced, notto mention the Bharat Natyam performanceleft us speechless. The older folk were notfar behind with the live band and a Marathisong and dance.

Moments of recognition for all the hard workdone by the Priests, Parish Councilors, andSCC Coordinators past and present and eachreceived a memento. The vote of thanks byFr. Anto made one and all realize, how manywere silently involved working behind thescenes for the success of the day’sprogramme.

Today when we look back these past 10 yearswe are proud to say that we are a vibrantcommunity of St. Vincent Pallotti parish andhave grown from strength to strength andwe are thankful to GOD, Bishop Bosco andhis team, our parish fathers both pastand present, convent sisters and themost important cog in the wheel that keepsthe community running and functioning as awell oiled machine -,the animators of everycommunity. Thank you and God bless.

���

Lenten Mission in Konkanni From 16th March to 20th ‘09Date Time Preacher Topic

16th March, Mon 7.30 – 9.00pm Fr. Peter Rebello Suffering17th March, Tues 7.30 – 9.00pm Fr. Peter Rebello Prayer18th March , Wed 7.30 – 9.00pm Fr. Peter Rebello Forgiveness19th March, Thur 7.30 – 9.00pm Fr. Peter Rebello Family20th March, Frid 7.30 – 9.00pm Fr. Peter Rebello Euchrist

PALLOTTI NOTES 14

BORN IN CHRIST07.12.08 Tajesha Rego Eco Palms B-405, M.M.R.D. Marol12.12.08 Alice Joan A3-104, Lok Yamuna, Military Road14.12.08 Tiesha D’souza 18/A/206, Bhawani Nagar, Marol14.12.08 Nigel Monis E-305/306, Lok Sarita, Military Road14.12.08 Pearl D’souza B-602, Jagdish Apts. Military Road20.12.08 Genevieve M. Monteiro LT 29/32, Vijay Nagar, Marol20.12.08 Samaira Santis A-2, E/1, Panchavati MMRD Marol21.12.08 Naythan Tribhuwan C-1, Ellora Apts. MMRD, Marol25.12.08 Aveena Jayaseli Aarey Milk Colony Unit 2228.12.08 Ravya Jadhav A3/37, Marol Police Camp01.01.09 Jack Gerald Aarey Milk Colony Unit 2201.02.09 Anushka Alphonsa Aarey Milk Colony Unit 2215.02.09 Eric Chetiar C-502, N. G. Complex21.02.09 Kiara Santis 17/5/12, Bhawani Nagar22.02.09 Steve Nair B/003, Jai Durga CHS.22.02.09 Kiara S. Triwadad B-405, Mayur Tower22.02.09 Alex P. Rozario 6/5/12, Bhawani Nagar22.02.09 Swanel D’souza H-6, Vijay Nagar22.02.09 Rachael S. Carbozo G-1, 802, Bhoomi Park, Malad (W)22.02.09 Brendan Crasta 101, Mayur Deluxe

JOIN IN HOLY MATRIMONY12.12.08 Vinay D’silva & Neelam S. Mishra13.12.08 Navin Mscarenhas & Reena H. Mendonca27.12.08 Jeffery P. Fernandes & Charmaine V. Mendonca28.12.08 Wilfred S. Mendonca & Evelyn Fernandes28.12.08 Collin R. D’souza & Benzita C. Sequira28.12.08 Rohan R. Rodrigues & Shaline Cardoza30.12.08 Sunith B.T. D’souza & Sharon S. D’souza03.01.09 Dexter V. Jacinto & Marisa V. Mendonca03.01.09 Bosco J. Pinto & Rochelle L. D’cunha11.01.09 Roncy E. Patel & Vanessa V. Hendrick18.01.09 Robert T. Crasa & Deena M. Lazrado25.01.09 Anil L. Rosario & Anita N. Fernandes25.01.09 Chakrapani S. Shetty & Vianja M. Saldanha31.01.09 Norman V. Furtado & Slavia Lobo01.02.09 Elton F.S. Rodrigues Melissa L. D’mello22.02.09 Ronson Lazarus & Teresa Aaron

REST IN THE LORD05.12.08 Antonio F. J. D’souza 16/3/12, Bhawani Nagar10.12.08 Lovis M. Pegado E/12, Sai Nagar, M.M. Road, Marol15.12.08 Anthony P. FernandesAarey Mill Colony, Main Pump House30.12.08 Timothy F. D’souza E-503, New Mayur Millitary Raod09.01.09 Anionet A. Fernandes 11/2/8, Bhawani Nagar05.02.09 Dominic Fernandes 9/10, Blossom Society18.02.09 Vincent R. Pinto 2/7/1, Bhawani Nagar

From the Parish Register...

PALLOTTI NOTES 15

Forthcoming Events

4th,5th&6th April 2009 : Confessions From 5.00p.m to 8.00p.m.HOLY WEEK THE LORD’S PASSIONSunday : Palm Sunday5th April 2009 6.00am, 7.00am, 8.00am & 5.30pm. 10.30am- Tamil Mass.

Blessing of palms will take place at the 8.00am massNo Mass at 9.15 a.m.

PASCAL TRIDUUMThursday : Maundy Thursday9th April 2009 : No morning mass

5.30pm – Mass only for the sick and aged.7.30pm – Mass of the Lord’s Supper with washing of the feet followed by adorationin the church till midnight.

: 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. All the communities on the Military Road.: 10 p.m.to 11 p.m.All the communities at Bhavaninagar & Sainagar.: 11p.m. to midnight Vijaynagar, Police camp, Tamil units, Sisters and Fathers.

Friday : Good Friday (A day of fast & abstinence)10th April 2009 : 7.00am – Stations of the Cross

3.00pm – Divine Mercy Novena6.00pm – Commemoration of the Passion & Death of Our Lord

Saturday : Easter Vigil11th April 2009 : No morning mass

8.00pm – Solemn Easter Vigil ServiceSunday : Easter Sunday12th April 2009 : Masses at 7.00am, 8.00am, 9.15am in English and 10.30am in Tamil

No evening massMonday : Easter House Blessing Schedule- 2009 From 5.30p.m.13th April 2009 : St. Joseph, St. Stephen, Vailankanni, St. Mary.14th April 2009 : Bl. Mother Theresa, St. Bonaventure, St. Ignatius of Loyola15th April 2009 : St. Antony, St. Jude, St.Paul, Poomary.16th April 2009 : Sacred Heart, St. Francis Xavier, St. Michael, St. Patrick17th April 2009 : St. Lawrence, Holy family, St. Peter, St. Theresa18th April 2009 : Ave Maria, Don Bosco, Infant Jesus, Rose of Sharon, St. ThomasSunday : Divine Mercy Sunday19th April 2009 : Adoration at 2.30pm

9.15 a.m- First Holy Communion20th to 25th April’09 : Children Summer camp for Standard 1to 925th April 2009 : Feast of St. Mark the evangelistSunday : Sacrament of Confirmation – Mass at 5.30pm26th April 2009 : Celebrant – Rev Bishop Bosco PenhaMAY 2009 : Through the month of May, the Legionaries will conduct Holy Rosary

at the Grotto at 6.30pm from Sundays to Fridays and 6.00pm on Saturdays.1st May 2009 : Feast of St. Joseph the Worker14th May 2009 : Feast of St . Mathias Apostle24th May 2009 : Solemnity – The Ascension of the Lord31st May 2009 : Solemnity – Pentecost Sunday

PALLOTTI NOTES 16

ALISEN AVIATION CLASSES

Course : AIRLINE CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT

Eligibility : 10 + 2 (HSC) with English

Course Duration : THREE N HALF MONTHS

Fees : LOWEST IN THE INDUSTRY

SYLLABUSSYLLABUSSYLLABUSSYLLABUSSYLLABUS

Aviation Terminology IATA CodesTravel Itineraries Involuntary Change of CarrierDenied Boarding Procedures Security ProceduresPassenger Handling Manual Check-In, Seating Plan(Physically Challenged) Choice of MealsIssue of Tickets, Re-Issue of Tickets Issuance of F.I.M. and ExcessCalculation of Excess Baggage and Baggage TicketsExcess ValuationElectronic Ticketing Boarding AnnouncementsBaggage Handling Personal GroomingPersonality Development Communication SkillsDocumentation, Visa's Flight Handling

(Delayed, Cancelled, Diverted, Mechanical Flights)For Details Contact.

MR. BOSCO MARTINCYRLEN (SUNFLOWER NURSERY), NEAR ST. JOHN CHURCHPALIGRANDE ROAD, MAROL, ANDHERI (E), MUMBAI - 59.

TEL.: 28368431 • Mobile : 9819890560

TRAINERS WITH OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY.

Advertisement

PALLOTTI NOTES 17

Advertisement

PALLOTTI NOTES 18

M. JAMES CHETTIARMobile : 99670 49269

98216 09269

SPECIALIST IN : REPAIRS SERVICES & MAINTENANCE OFSPLIT/WINDOW AIR CONDITIONING, PACKAGE & CENTRAL

PLANT, REFRIGERATOR EQUIPMENT

B/6, CRESENT Apts., Opp. Kunti Park, Military Road, Marol,Andheri (E), Mumbai-59. Tel. : 2920 1868 • Telefax : 2920 5692 •

E-mail : ajnmark_cool@yahoo.co.in

MARK COOL SERVICES

Advertisement

PALLOTTI NOTES 19

SUSAAN’S HAIR N BEAUTY SALONSPA & CLASSESSPA & CLASSESSPA & CLASSESSPA & CLASSESSPA & CLASSES

Unfurls the beauty in youSPA, JACUZZI & STEAM BATH

We offer you a unique, hygiene and specialised SPA services, Stone Therapy,Full Body Massage with different types of body wraps to suit your needs.Detoxifying, Relaxing, and Toning for Glow & Rejuvenating Treatment.Chemical Free Skin Peels and Skin Polishing is done with latest machine.All kinds of Advance Facial with latest equipments is done.Treatments for Pimples, Acne, Deep Scars, Pigmentation, Hair fall, Dandruff etc.All advance Hair Cuts, Highlights, Colouring, Perming & Rebonding.Bridal Make-up, Make-up for all occasions & Pre-Bridal Packages are available.Available Ayurvedic Hair Oil for Hairfall and Dandruff.Anti-Hair loss Treatment with Guaranteed results.Basic and Advance Courses with Diploma.Attractive packages.

Contact : Mrs. SUSAN GEORGE404, Plot - B, Twin Arcade, Marol Military Road, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 059.

Parlor : 2920 8250 • Cell : 98214 77800

WE ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

Ladiesonly

Advertisement

ILENS BARRETTOFAMILY FINANCIAL PLANNERFAMILY FINANCIAL PLANNERFAMILY FINANCIAL PLANNERFAMILY FINANCIAL PLANNERFAMILY FINANCIAL PLANNER

LIC / GENERAL INSURANCE / MEDICLAIM& ALL TYPES OF MUTUAL FUNDS

SERVICE FOR ALL EXISTING POLICIES

“INSURE TODAY & SECURE FOR TOMORROW”

Contact : 9833243554 / 9920726751 / 9920726751

E-MAIL : ilens@rediffmail.com

PALLOTTI NOTES 20

Advertisement