Feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception: Feast of hope for sinners

The feast of our Patron St Francis Xavier was just over but the celebratory mood continued. On 5th December, we had the flag hoisting ceremony, known as Maadi to signify the commencement of the Triduum in preparation of the feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and explained to us the meaning and importance of celebrating this feast. It’s the day when Mama Mary was conceived in her mother’s (St. Ann) womb, nine months after which we celebrate Mama Mary’s Birthday on September 8th. The Triduum was carried out for the next 3 days with the charge taken up by the Confraria to organize it. Fr. Joseph Rodrigues, Prefect, Rachol Seminary and Fr. Mathew Rebello, Professor of Music, Rachol Seminary offered the Holy Mass during the Triduum.

Blessing of the Flag Photo by: Crispino Faria

Incidentally, the visiting priests had an opportunity to use the Chalice, which was used by St. Pope John Paul II during the Pontifical Mass during his visit to Goa in 1986. It was followed by Salves with children dressed up as Angels who sang the hymn for Mama Mary and offered flowers to her Image. There was a canteen with mouthwatering snacks organized too for the people who like to have a bite as they enjoy the games of Housie and Lucky dip organized by the Catechist and parish Youth. They made sure the people went back home with a smile.

The feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mama Mary was celebrated on 9th December with due pomp and piety. The main Celebrant at the festive Mass was Fr. Luis Alvares, PP of Sancoale. Our Palloti priests led by Fr. Valentine, Fr. Arogya Das and Fr. Edwin together with Fr. Bolmax concelebrated the festive Mass. After Mass, a statue of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception was carried in a procession to the tunes of a traditional brass band. After the service, a canteen was organised by the Alto Chicalim parishioners. Several games were conducted by our youth for the entertainment of the parishioners.

Snapshots of the Feast Photo by: Crispino Faria

The Legion of Mary, Junior members prepared beautiful “flowers” which were pinned on the lapels of the festive attire of the parishioners.

In the evening, a tiatr was organized after a very long time in our parish as a part of the festive celebration. Comedian Selvys “Raza Jeyta Kombo Choita” comedy tiatr tickled many a funny bone of the audience. It was well attended and everyone returned home with a smiling face.

Games in progress Photo by: Neola Pereira