Celebration of the Catechism Day at Sacred Heart Church, Surathkal

The Catechism Day was celebrated on Sunday 25th February 2024 at Sacred Heart Church,
Surathkal, Mangalore. The Day commenced with Eucharistic Celebration At 9.00 a.m. led by
Rev. Fr. Ivan D’Souza HOD Professor of Philosophy Jeppu seminary, Mangalore and along
with catechism Teachers, Children, Parents and Parishioners.

The Liturgy was led by the
children of the parish. The Children's choir added the solemnity of the service. In his Homily
Fr. Emphasized on the three readings of the liturgy, how we can do good for others and live
the Word of God. Thanksgiving prayers were offered to the Triune God for bestowing the
blessings throughout the year. All took active participation in the Eucharistic celebration.
After the Holy Mass sharp at 10.30 a.m. the Catechism Day was celebrated joyously and very
enthusiastically in the Sabhabhavan. As the programme was began the welcoming was done.
Dignitaries who graced the occasion were Rev. Fr. Austin Peres, the Parish Priest, Fr. Ivan
D’Souza HOD Professor of Philosophy Jeppu seminary, Mangalore, Rev.Fr. Richard
D’Souza, the Socius, Mr. Russel Roche, the Vice President Mrs. Asha Pinto, the Secretary,
Mr. Norbert Misquith, the commissions coordinator and Miss. Tina Rebello, the catechism
Coordinator.
Students from class1 to 12th performed a wonderful cultural programme on this joyful
occasion, the programme was based on the faith, moral values, prayer etc. As well as
experience of the catechism was shared by the teacher, student and parent. Highlighted the
meaning and need of Catechism in the life of children. The role that parents play in enabling
the parish to carry out the Catechism classes systematically.

Fr. Ivan D’Souza was the chief guest of the occasion. In his address, encouraged the students
for their talents and good work as well as mentioned about how we can imitate Christ in our
lives. Also Expressed gratitude towards the teachers for their selfless work. Rev. Fr. Austin
Peres, the Director of Catechism delivered the message to the parents and those gathered
regarding the importance of the catechism in our life. Also explained the difference between
the talent’s day and the catechism day. He appreciated the children, teachers and parents of
the parish for their dedicated interest in helping the children grow in Catholic faith through
Catechism and he also thanked all the catechism teachers for their selfless service to the
church. It was indeed a moment of pride for all parents, teachers and children who have
received these words of encouragement and appreciation from the parish priest.
Children who had excelled in the Catechism exam and had 100 percent of attendance and for
doing a neat workbook were rewarded with prizes. Teachers who teach catechism were
honoured. Vote of thanks was proposed by the student. The programme was ended with a
thanksgiving hymn. At the end Refreshments were served to the children and Parents and
those who were present.
To conclude, catechism classes help each child to know Jesus and to live His values
throughout his or her life, to do good deeds, carryout mission of Jesus, spread the love of
Jesus. children were very active and enthusiastic to participate actively in all the activities
and the classes. They have shown their interest in everything. The initiatives taken by the
Parish Priest, Socius and the catechism teachers were effective to build up strong foundation
of Christian faith in the life of the children.