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- MAUREEN LOBO

“ We l c o m e , w e l c o m e ! Tomorrow is my birthday and my whole family is gathered round as midnight approaches. The house is beautifully

decorated, there is music playing and wonderful aromas are coming from the kitchen. There are so many presents all wrapped up so thoughtfully. Oh I just can't contain my excitement. How I wait the whole year through for my birthday to come! The clock finally strikes 12 and everyone is so happy. They are hugging and wishing each other. I sit up straight expecting them to turn to me. But alas- they are so caught up amongst themselves that they have completely forgotten about me.”

I think if Baby Jesus had to describe Christmas today this would be the gist of it. We have completely forgotten the real essence of Christmas. The time has come for us to start cleaning out our mind and heart along with our remaining “Christmas cleaning”. It is time we ask ourselves- “What really is Christmas all about?” Christmas is so familiar that we sometimes wonder whether anything fresh and true can be said about it. Is there a way to explore its meaning that may seem new to us today?

Pope Francis has declared this year as the year of Mercy. And what a beautiful way the mercy of the Lord has been embodied in his gift of Baby Jesus to us. It is out of his mercy that the Prince of peace has come into our fragmented, intolerant and selfish world. I feel the best birthday gift that we can give him is to follow his

example and be merciful to others. - Blessed are the merciful for they shall know mercy. The key question is – how do I be merciful? Pope Francis tells us,“Follow the merciful example of the father, who asks us not to judge or condemn but to forgive and give love without measure. The journey starts with a spiritual conversion.” We have to be the change we want to see around us. We need to ask ourselves –

Can we connect with people we care about deeply and also reach out to those who are lonely?

Can we strengthen bonds of friendship and love?

Can we gift each other a better life by being more committed, more hopeful and positive?

Can we truly make it a festival of love? So that the warm memories of this season sustain us throughout the year?

“Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy is to have the real spirit of Christmas” (Calvin Coolidge).

Familiar with Merry Christmas. How about “ MERCY CHRISTMAS” ?

CHRISTMAS IN THE YEAR OF MERCY….

Editorial...........

VASHI VISION - Sacred Heart Church, Vashi December-2014 - January-2015

Bulletin of Sacred Heart Parish, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. Vol. XXXV - No.-6, December 2015-January 2016

VASHI VISION - Sacred Heart Church, Vashi December 2015 - January 2016

VASHI VISION Parish Bulletin of Sacred Heart Church

Vashi, Navi Mumbai

EDITORIAL TEAM Fr Gerald Fernandes, George Thomas,

Dr Maureen Lobo, Rita Pinto, Kimberly Rowe, Peter Quadros

DESIGN & LAYOUTFelix Rodrigues

SEND ARTICLES FOR VASHI VISION TO [email protected]

PUBLISHED BYParish Priest,Sacred Heart Church, Plot No. 67, Sector - 9A, Vashi,Navi Mumbai - 400 703. Tel.: 2765 0343 - 1392Church email: [email protected]

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Do share your news, Views, stories, achievements, Inspirations and activities in various Church Groups and Associations which can be shared with the larger family of this Sacred Heart Parish through this News Letter Vashi Vision (It will be great if you can provide the articles as soft copy if not hard copy is always welcome).

- Articles & Pictures for printing in the future issues of Vashi Vision should reach the

editorial team latest by 15th of every preceding month of the issue. (Maximum 400

words per article)- email your views & articles and photographs & advertisements to

[email protected]

- For Advertising in Vashi Vision kindly contact the Church office.

Share Your Community News, Articles and Suggestions

Fr GerryFernandesFr Gerry

FernandesFr Baptist

ViegasFr Baptist

Viegas

The Parish Fathers wish

each one of you

the Blessings at the birth of Jesus

and a Joyful New Year 2016

Chirstmas Greetings


ANY ROOM IN OUR INNS?- P. RUFUS, Sector 10A

Jesus! What a way He came, and what a way He went! In the Ascension, we are treated to His true, resplendent glory as God. Perhaps the Bethlehem inn keepers should have been among those who witnessed the phenomenon, as the cloud lifted Him out of sight. They might have retrospectively beaten their breast at God's amazing condescension at their very inn doors, just about three decades ago!

But they might have wondered too. Why did He not choose to come the way He went up? It seems that His way of coming at Christmas, was to knock at the Conscience of Man. Over the ages, and especially in the terrorized world of today. In his UN address, Pope Francis dwelt aptly on exclusion in humanity that has been rampant through what we have called 'civilization'. Had Mary and Joseph pulled up at the Inn in a carriage, dressed in silk, perhaps the innkeeper would have readi ly made some arrangements for accommodation even in a full inn. But this poor, nomadic couple could well be excluded.

The knocks at several inn doors on that Christmas night, reverberated throughout Jesus's life. He went about knocking for some room in men's hearts. Despite His best effort, He was largely excluded. His plight, and eventual price, of exclusion continues even today in the poor, the marginalized, the oppressed, the downtrodden, the sick, the imprisoned, etc. The knocks continue in the inn doors of nations, societies, cultures, religions, education, healthcare, justice, economies, politics and ecosystem.

For too long, there has been well orchestrated exclusion and disparity everywhere for exploitative advantage. Inevitably, as the pontiff underlined, the cumulative effect of such established and growing exclusion has found it's worst, devastating and completely unexpected expression today – global terrorism! Even the little 'peace' that prevails in some parts of the world is far different from what prevailed at the Christmas stable. That was true peace, bearing Joy and Hope over a birth. But today, it is an eerie, escapist, momentary quiet in hiding, shadowed by fear of death; again exemplified in the Paris attacks.

But the knocks at the inn-doors continue, louder. Will humanity come to its senses and open the doors? Can we hope for hope in countries opening their doors to the mass of refugees? Will there be a better planet in the collective commitment and action for the environment? Above all, can we hope for an eventual end to terrorism in the Nobel Peace prize for 2015 recognising the Tunisian Quartet's effort that unified deeply fractured groups in a bond of peace, away from a bloody rift? What if all these efforts gain greater world momentum that unifies divided economies to ensure equitable distribution of opportunity and well-being? The opening of such

inn doors alone can bring true and lasting peace for humanity as at the Bethlehem stable, rather than the best of security systems, intelligence sharing and military might.

May this Blessed Christmas open the world's inn doors wider in love and inclusion, to augur a New Year that could be the beginning of better Hope for humanity!

WHAT CHRISTMAS MEANS TO ME AND MY FAMILY- VIOLET D’ALMEIDA, Sec-16

When I see today Jesus with Mary and Joseph, I always remember my child, husband and me.

It reminds me of Christmas and its celebrations - decorating the house, making all the delicious sweets, keeping good clothes in preparation of midnight mass on 24th December. Yes for me it is a celebration. A celebration of peace and happiness. I express my happiness by distributing goodies as I feel along with these, I am spreading peace and friendship to my

friends of different faiths In my mind also, I am sure of sharing the good news of our salvation through Jesus to them. I am happy I am contributing to our faith in the manner without disturbing their f r e e d o m o f t h o u g h t a n d faith.

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LOVE AND NUTURE IN THE FAMILY- OSCAR V. GOMES, Sector -6

You would have heard the opening hymn on Christmas eve Mass, “See the New Born Baby, See the little Child”. Weren't you thrilled at the lyrics of this new Hymn? As it is the month of Christmas, a month of

love and remembrance as we bow and kneel to the little Christ.

Years later when Jesus took little children in His lap and blessed them, He demonstrated love to them in different ways at the same time, He spent time with them, He acknowledged their presence, He spoke words of affirmation to them through blessings, and – He spoke love to them through physical touch. In many ways He physically communicated to them. Infants and small children need heavy doses of communicated love initiated by parents. We initiate the communication of love through holding our babies, kissing them, speaking and singing words of affirmation, acknowledging their presence by listening and responding when they speak, spending time together. This affirms to our children that they are loved. All this needs to be continued as our children grow.

Dealing with babies is not the same as dealing with teenagers. As children grow parents must shift from always initiating of communicating physical love (hugging, kissing) to a healthy pattern of both initiating and RESPONDING to our childs' cues.

The ebb and flow and initiating and responding to physical touch is ESPECIALLY important to opposite gender relationships between parents and children, mothers to sons and fathers to daughters.

Don't miss your kids as they grow up under your noses. All to soon they will be grown up and gone. Grab hold of every moment possible to invest love in our children.

It cannot be over emphasized just how crucial a fathers nurture is to his daughters life-long spiritual, emotional and physical health – and mother to her son's. When a father turns a consistently critical eye on his daughter or passively ignores her presence, he causes great damage to her spirit that must be repaired later with much effort, prayer and love. The same applies regarding a mother and her sons.

These opposite gender relationships are so crucial in developing a healthy foundation for the next generation families.

A father who exhibits joy and delight in his daughter, respecting her thoughts, teaching her to implement righteous boundaries internally and externally will raise a very healthy daughter who will walk out her calling with dignity and grace and successfully mother the next generation.

On the other hand a mother who gives her son respect and honour acknowledging the uniqueness of their masculinity and models to them how to receive in appropriate ways and how to give respect and honour to her – a representative of females in general. She trains them to identify and express their emotions in healthy

ways instead of stuffing them denying them or letting them explode. She teaches them to be thoughtful, compassionate and considerate of others so her sons will be confident and well balanced, equipped to father the next generation.

So the Holy Spirit as your guide will guide you in peace. It is wise to let Him help you in your mission of bringing up good Christians in the Faith.

ST. JUDE'S COMMUNITY FEAST (SECTOR – 1)- SAMHIT DABRAL

The community feast of our patron St. Jude Sector – 1 was totally awesome and filled with fun. The feast of our patron St. Jude was originally on the 28th of October but being a weekday, we celebrated the feast on a weekend which was the 31st of October 2015.

We enjoyed ourselves as we were playing games and more fun filled activities. The youth had worked hard for organizing games and more fun activities to make it memorable for the young and the old. We played games like Alphabet Fun, Bombing the City, Musical Chairs (for the youngsters), Musical Arms (for the elders) and

we also had a team drawing competition. We enjoyed a dance performance by Joaline. The prizes were distributed to the winners by the senior citizens.

The occasion was graced by our dearest Fr. Gerry and Fr. Baptist. Mr. Fabian Lobo (SCC Coordinator), Mr. Prakash Lewis (PPC Representative) and the

Animators made sure that the evening was a successful, memorable and a loving one.

B e f o r e w i n d i n g u p , o u r P P C Representative thanked each and everyone, and specially the youth for their active participation. He also thanked all

the sponsors for their support. We departed with sweet memories of the evening and also

with delicious chicken biryani.

4


A PRINCE OF WAR

Behold the Son of God…

Wrapped in angel glory

Bells peeling the welcome

Showered from a

Star-spangled sky.

The shepherds kneel down

Before the little Prince of Peace

In awesome marvel

Echoing the cherubic voice

“Peace to people on earth”.

Yes…the PEACE that still evades

This barbed earth.

Behold a son of man….

Wrapped in a shroud of inhumanity…

Death bells peeling adios

To dreams washed away by the sea.

A sea of land mines…. terrorism…

A sea of refugees -

Lost forever in an exodus.

A father kneels down

Before a little Prince of War

In awful sorrow

Echoing the grieving voice.

Oh! When can I embrace this world?

And say Peace to you …

Instead of “Merry Christmas”-

Uttered from an hardened heart

While the world weeps?

Yes… the PEACE that still evades us…

That peace that we all yearn for,

In a borderless earth

And live free without any fears….

In all the coming years.

- Usha Varkey

Merry ChristmasHappy New Year 2016

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5


ADULT CATECHESIS – PRE-BAPTISM COURSE- PRANEETA D'SOUZA, Sector-16

A trip to Bandra for a Pre-Baptism Seminar on Sunday, 11th October in the company of three amazing Pre-Bap Catechists turned out to be more fun and informative than I first imagined.

On the way to & fro, I learned what a small world this truly is and once there, Fr. Vincent D'Cruz opened my mind to an essential Catechesis that I knew existed but never realised its importance.

Relevant is the knowledge that each of us through our Baptism IS a Catechist. As parents, each of us is a Catechist to our children through our living of the Christian Life. Sending our kids for Sunday school (barely four hours a month) is not enough. We want children to follow the Faith... we need to practice it as adults, in everything we do. We need to be involved unconditionally in the faith formation of our children.

That brings us to Adult Catechesis. The need of the hour is to be up-to-date in our knowledge of our 'Faith & the Good News' , relat ing to the 'Traditions' and in context of today's external factors.

Tall order? YES. Essential? YES. Possible? OH YES.

The Pre-Baptism course is intended for young parents expecting a

child. Pre-Bap Catechists are called to prepare these adults to minister the faith to their children by being Christian examples. The Pre-Bap Course may in all probability be the last formal spiritual formation that they will go through as an adult. We need to make it count.

As a Pre-Bap Catechist, one has first to be convinced of one's own faith in order to convince and promote a life in Christ, to have knowledge of the Scriptures, theology and morals, as well as practical knowledge of the world we live in. They have a duty to encourage adults to assume their responsibility in Faith Formation.

That would mean that they have to constantly upgrade their systems - in terms of communication skills, knowledge, get rid of egos & personal beliefs and be animators. Lucky for us, the Church doesn't leave us alone there – the tools in terms of literature, seminars,

trainings... are available in Catholic book stores, online sites and programmes conducted.

The Seminar ended with a lovely prayer service and a call to each of us to be good role models and sincere catechists. A video titled Five loaves & Two fish left us with more food for thought – “Take my five loaves and two fishes, Do with it as you will... No gift is too small”.

VIOLENCE FREE FAMILY DAY- SHEETAL SANTHUMAYOR

Violence Free Family Day was celebrated by the Archdiocese Women's Commission on 1st November at Sacred H e a r t H i g h S c h o o l , S a n t a c r u z . The programme was attended by students

and parents of various schools and churches of our Diocese.

Sr. Venita led us into prayer. A video was shown on violence against women and its affects on their children. The session on 'Pornography' by Desire Dias was indeed very informative. The effects of Pornography - how people get addicted to it, how it destroys relationships - were highlighted. Parents were told how to monitor their children when they are with their mobile phones or computer. It was very enlightening not only for the children but also for their parents.

The winners of 'High on Life' and 'Beautiful Woman' contests held all over the Diocese were awarded certificates by Bishop Savio Fernandes. This was also conducted by Women's Commission members of our Parish too for our Sunday School students of 8th and 9th. The Contest was on how we value our lives, of achieving our dreams and that physical beauty is just skin deep. Real substance of what we are is evolved from our actual worthiness and how we treasure the nobler attitudes in our lives.

The winners from our Parish who received certificates were:

VIII STD: JOSHUA FONSECA, GAVIN D'SOUZA, RAJIV GEORGE, LEANNE ROSE, ANGELINE CORREA, MALITA COUTINHO

IX STD: JOSHUA D'SOUZA, JADEN CARVALHO, SHEETAL SANTHUMAYOR and, GISELLE QUADROS.

It was a proud and happy moment for all of us.

6


LEGION OF MARY - ACTIVITIES

On 2nd October, an excited band of 72 members of Mother Mary's Army – Legionaries as we are called went on a trip to Christ The King Church, Rasayani. The trip commenced at 8:00 am with 26 members from Vashi & Koparkhairane boarding the bus at Vashi and then proceeding to pick up 9 members from Sanpada. Some more members joined us from Nerul, CBD Belapur, Kharghar and Panvel.

The journey began the Legion prayer along with the Rosary and Divine Mercy chaplet. After a hymn, a sing-song followed, thoroughly enjoyed by one and all. On reaching our destination we were warmly welcomed by Fr Anto & his assistant Fr Jerry.

Fr Anto showed us around the church and its surroundings, for our day long activities. Fr Anto made available a large spacious room. After a sumptuous breakfast, we were apprised of the day's program with the Eucharist at 10:30 am and Rosary at around 3:30 pm together with the inmates of the Nishkalank Home (home for the aged) who were free to join.

Fr Jerry celebrated the Eucharist with a poignant homily on Mother Mary, citing also his own life's instances where his mother was instrumental in his opting for the priesthood and his devotion to Mother Mary.

Fr Anto then briefed us on the beginnings of the

parish which has grown, consisting of a school with 270 students. After the Eucharist we could avail ourselves of the beautiful ambience, a riverside and an open space for promenading. Our fun of frolic began with an hilarious dodge ball game all excited in avoiding being the victim. The housie game was even more fun with its added features ''Bulls eye'', ''Jonah'' and ''Four corners'' thoroughly enjoyed by one and all. We were thrilled with the suspense and excitement. This was followed by lunch. Back to the Hall after lunch, for an exciting session of 'Antakshari' where two groups vied to outwit each other. Our next activity was the Rosary with the inmates of the home for the aged after which miraculous medals were distributed while interacting with them. The program ended with tea.

Fr Anto evinced his desire to start the Legion in his parish for which members were solicited to volunteer in the spade work for initiating the movement & for follow-up. After a vote of thanks by Sr Marlene a contribution was given in token of our appreciation. Thanks to the driving force of our Spiritual Director Rev. Fr Gerry this program was a grand success.

- Sr RITA DSOUZA VMF and Sr VIOLET D'ALMEIDA COOJ and Morning Star Curia

CELEBRATION OF MOTHER MARY'S BIRTHDAY at Koparkhairane

OUTREACH PROGRAM to CHRIST THE KING CHURCH, Rasayani

17th September was a red letter day for Mother Mary's army known as Legionaries, when we set out for St. Francis De Sales Church, Koperkhairne.

This was a joint function by the praesidia of Vashi, Ghansoli & Koperkhairne. Legionaries of the above three parishes got together to interact with each other and thus build a strong bonding with one another. As it is an annual function we were enthusiastic about meeting again under the banner of the Legion.

The celebration began with a meaningful procession when we approached the image of our Blessed Mother Mary by laying flowers in her honour. The small diyas posed a fitting ambience. The Legion opening prayers with the holy Rosary was then recited. Then followed the cake cutting by Fr. Gerry, Fr. Terrie & Sr. Moksha. Fr. Terrie spoke of the importance of the Legion and emphasised on imitating the virtues of Mary.

After a brief session with snacks and cold drinks, we got into action enjoying the games of balloons, grouping in various numbers of 2s, 3s, while the quiz got our grey cells working, vying for the prizes. This brought about the desired interaction among us.

The grand finale was a performance by our junior Legionaries – Queen of Angels Praesidium – who ably enacted the virtues of Mary viz. simplicity, humility, generosity, obedience & patience. We enjoyed every moment of this absorbing enactment. Thereafter with

the enthusiasm of the youngsters the whole hearted participation of all present was much appreciated.

This was a truly memorable occasion which ended with a sumptuous lunch. We owe our gratitude to the able guidance and support of our dynamic & inspirational Spiritual Director Fr. Gerald fondly known as Fr. Gerry.

AVE MARIA

7


“OCTOBER” THE MONTH OF THE HOLY ROSARY - VIOLET D'ALMEIDA, Legion Of Mary Sacred Heart Church.

Rosary is a contemplative and Christ centric prayer, inseparable from meditation on Holy Scripture.

It is the prayer of the Christian who advances on his pilgrimage of faith following Jesus and preceded by Mary. Praying the Rosary in public is an excellent way to introduce others to catholic faith. We must not be ashamed of our faith. Keeping it in our minds we legion of Mary members from Sacred Heart church Vashi, invited our parishioners to join us to recite the rosaries in the families, communities and at the church Grotto for the various intentions.

On the first October our pilgrimage started at St

Peters Community Sector 16 at 5.30 p m. with a gathering of 10 adults and 2 children, the head of the family Mrs. Mallika Fernandes receiving and welcoming Mama Mary with flowers and incense The Rosary conducted by the legion of Mary Members with the opening hymn and the Mysteries , Litany of our Lady by the family members prayer for Popes intentions , for the family and for other intentions by the Legion member concluded with a hymn in English as well as Konkani at 6.00p,m.followed by small community fellow ship.

Our Pilgrimage continued till the end of the month daily in 26 homes reciting the rosary by a group of 25 to 30 members of the community and legion with the children and junior legionaries attending daily. We felt the public prayer is more powerful than the private prayer. The immaculate Heart of Mary will triumph over evil. It is great privilege to be among that trust and honour her.

We want to share The Grace of our Lady's work for all to see that is why we have given you the pictures of our pilgrimage for month of October 2015 Hope you all waiting to welcome mama Mary in your homes during the .month of May 2016, or any day of the year if you think we must come and recite Holy Rosary at your residence, .By being Legionaries we said yes to our Lady to serve her any time.

AVE MARIA.

CHRISTMAS & BIBLE CELLHey friends!Here's what Christmas means to us at the Bible

Cell - Our desire to carry out A C T S of mercy.

A - ADVENT – During Advent we make a commitment to PREPARE FOR HIS COMING- 'Stay awake the Master is coming….! (Mt.24:42)

C - CLEAN UP – what? Our heart, mind and soul with REPENTANCE, FORGIVENESS & RECONCILIATION. 'A pure heart creates for me O God' (Ps 51:10)

T - TEACH- All who desire to learn the WORD OF GOD which is living and active, a lamp to our feet and a light to our path,(Ps 119:105) sharper than a two edged sword able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Heb 4:12), and transforming our lives !

S - SERVE – We will SERVE the Lord by SHARING all that we do not need with the one who needs, CARING for creation, growing trees, saving water and electricity, disposing wet and dry garbage separately and living in fellowship and love. 'I have come not to be served but to serve.'! (Mk 10:45)

This CHRISTMAS we can make a difference – if we perform Acts of Mercy and Kindness and learn to be like the Apostles, Peter and Paul in our parish and to the ends of the earth, proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel – 'Emmanuel God with us! 'MERRY CHRISTMAS!’

BIBLE CELLJoin us every Monday at 7.30 p.m. in the Conference Hall at Sacred Heart Church.

Humour: Q. What kind of car did the Apostles drive???A. They drove a Honda …..according to Acts... it's

says, 'they were all in one accord'

8


VACATION BIBLE JOY - Theme: BEATITUDES

VACATION BIBLE JOY - A Fun School

- ANGELINE CORREA

Our Vacation Bible Joy started on de 9th of November. The first thing that was done was Aunty Maureen giving out chocolates to the first 3 children who came. This continued throughout the week.

At VBJ we always started off with an assembly. Our dear teachers had a new story to tell us every day. We had action songs...taught by Kimberly. Out theme song was 'I've Got The Joy Joy Joy Joy Down in my Heart'. All the children loved to dance to it. After our Assembly we moved on to our respective fun classes. When I say fun...I mean it! We had different projects and activities to showcase our amazing talents.

Our class teachers taught us the different beatitudes in a real interesting way. Thanks to our lovely teachers I still remember the beatitudes! Everything single thing the teachers taught us was very much possible for US as school going children to do for others. I learnt that by doing simple acts of mercy, showing compassion, helping others, caring n sharing can make a big difference to this world. After a whole week of fun learning it was time to show our parents what we had learnt from VBJ.

On the annual day we showed our parents the action songs we had learnt and how we could use the beatitudes in our everyday life. And last but not the least we were given certificates by Fr. Gerry. Thank u teachers for taking time out to teach us all the importance of VBJ. I feel out of all the Bible Joys this one was the best! I hope that we are going to have more VBJs like this.

VACATION BIBLE JOY- INSPIRING, EDUCATING AND MOTIVATING CHILDREN

- CHITRA RODRIGO

The world at your finger tips – entangled in the gadget world during their holidays and leisure time children hardly get to know about the spiritual component to happiness from the book of life – THE BIBLE.

The vacation bible joy was an astounding opportunity and experience for the children of our parish. The theme was the “Beatitudes” which holds the crux that leads to the transformation of our lives. The word “Beatitude” is delivered from Latin which means “abundant happiness”. It was this happiness which the children experienced through the VBJ. It was a multi-faceted one in which children enjoyed doing worksheets and hand works pertaining to the

beatitudes. All these were so well organized so that it culminated on the last day with an exemplary exhibition and entertaining performances of the children.

It was a wonderful team effort under the guidance of Dr. Maureen Lobo who steered the whole team to reap fruitful results. Tons of hard work prior to the commencing of VBJ classes, valuable time spent by the teachers and volunteers and the whole hearted enthusiasm and willingness to teach the children is truly commendable. We are truly grateful to Fr. Gerry and Fr. Baptist for encouraging the children to place God more and more at the centre of their lives. The VBJ will definitely create an impact on each and every child and they are sure to manifest the characteristics of the beatitudes in their life.

Each beatitude begins with the word “Blessed” – we too are undoubtedly blessed to be a part of our Sacred Heart Parish which enhances the spiritual and holistic development of our children.

MY EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE AT VACATION BIBLE JOY (VBJ)

- RAYNA RODRIGO.

It was a pleasant Sunday evening when l realized that tomorrow (date) was the first day of VBJ.I was filled with enthusiasm as I packed my bag with all things necessary for that class. The next morning, I was eager to go to the VBJ. We were told that this time the theme was, THE BEATITUDES. All the days started with an assembly after which we went to our respective classes. We were taught songs, there was narration of stories. Also, the previous day's work was revised and we were asked questions on the previous day's teachings. . At the end of the assembly we said the prayer and went to our respective classes. During class we were given activity sheets, memory verses, the day's beatitudes, we sang songs, learnt about THE BIBLE and we were shown short movies pertaining to the day's work. During break time, we were given tasty refreshments and all of us relished it. We enjoyed a lot at VBJ. The last day of VBJ, Sunday the fifteenth of November, all the 3 groups performed 2 performances each. We also did a few action songs that we had learnt. Parents were also present to see us performing. It was real fun every day interacting with my teachers and friends which encouraged me to attend the VBJ without fail. I felt that the VBJ should have lasted for more days as we benefitted a lot through it. Altogether, this VBJ was the best and the most memorable one of all!!!!!!!

- Photos on Outside Back Cover Page

9


MATHERAN YOUTH CAMP 21st to 22nd November2015

- ANUSHA PRABHU

Life is a rigorous journey which always throws challenges on our path. It is important to sometimes untie the strings that bind us and take a break from our hectic schedule to lie on the grass and gaze

at the stars. The youth camp gave us an opportunity to escape into the lush greenery of Matheran and get to know each other thereby strengthening the bond between us - the GenY of the community.

Our weekend extravaganza began at the wee hours of Saturday morning. We boarded the bus and departed for the hills. We got off at the foot of the hill station and hired cabs to reach the top. The ride uphill had numerous swift turns and the speed definitely got our adrenaline pumping. The view of the valley from above was spellbinding. We then continued our journey on foot.

When we reached the church we settled into our rooms and enjoyed a sumptuous lunch. Innovative ice breaker games were organised by Silika, Love and Kimberly. Later, some of us went for a walk to breathe in the refreshing air and see what this scenic hill station had to offer. At a nearby park, the Ferris wheel ride brought out the child within us.

In the first activity, each team brought to life their own currency or symbol which represented the unique ideology of their group and showcased the

“Camp was great! Games were very well organized! This is something we will never forget. I'm glad I got to experience this. Truly an amazing experience that has given us memories to cherish forever. I miss everyone, thoroughly enjoyed the late night games and stories!” – Anusha Prabhu

“The camp will always be an awesome memory in our lives. We not only enjoyed ourselves to the fullest but also learned many things that will help us ahead in our lives! Thank you so much to each and everyone, from the organizers to the youth and conformation students for making these two days special and memorable!” – Sarah Corda

“Two days with each other was great fun, learned a lot of things, got to know many people, had a wonderful experience.” – Rutuja Kedari

“Thank you so much for organizing this. It really helped us a lot to know each other very well. We really had a lot of fun.” – Fiona Dias

“The camp was real fun. Thank you for making this camp a really good experience. We surely will treasure these memories.” – Melodina Roberts

“Thank you so much for organizing such a lovely camp. I thoroughly enjoyed and hope to join you'll in the future camps as well.” – Kimberly Monis

“Thank you for organizing such a wonderful camp.” – Macnus Monteiro

“It was amazing time with you guys. Now we know each other in much better way and appreciate everybody's uniqueness. Thank you guys. Without you I would have failed to treasure this moment. Cheers for more such moment to come. Stay blessed.” – Love Vishwakarma

- Photos on Inside Back Cover Page

Compiled by – Kimberly Rowe

views and ideas they would adopt to make this world a better place. At the Eucharist, Fr. Baptist's interactive sermon helped us to introspect and ponder on spiritual aspects of life. After dinner, we played taboo which tested our ability to express ourselves and thereafter we danced to catchy tunes, playing truth-dare games and listening to ghost stories!

Next morning, we woke up 5am and freshened up to leave on time to watch the breathtaking sunrise. We felt sheer bliss as we walked on the mud road, surrounded by the enchanting aura of the forest while listening to a theatrical opera of music by the birds. The whistling of the wind felt like our own version of paradise far away from the sounds of honking vehicles and smell of hazardous pollutants in our very own city. But no place however beautiful is as special as home. So after lunch, we rode on horseback to the train station from where we hired cabs and drove down hill.

It wasn't just a trip to witness nature in all its glory. It was an enriching experience that taught us about life and important values. It was a journey that enlightened us with new ideas, deepened our understanding of the world and broadened our vision. The world is a book and by travelling we read new chapters. On behalf of all youth, a heartfelt 'thank you' to Fr Baptist and Kimberly Rowe for organising this camp and giving us memories to cherish for a lifetime. We truly savoured every moment.

Matheran Youth Camp 2015 - Experiences

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A Call to the Parishioners of Sacred Heart Church, Vashi for Prayer and Fasting for God's Glory and the Cause of the Family

We are initiating a 366 day RELAY FASTING – where Parishioners from Sacred Heart Parish, Vashi, volunteer to fast for one day or one part of a day for Vocation to the priesthood and religious life. We welcome and encourage participation from all Parishioners in this worthy cause and hope to have many people sign up for each day of the year; because all of us, like drops in the bucket, fill the pail.

Although you could fast and pray privately, it is our hope that your public support will inspire many others to get involved. Signing up for the Relay Fasting is simple:Just fill in your name and other details in the forms

kept in the office or in the Sacristy.

1) Broad Requirement:

V Each day, at least 1 person from the Parish volunteers to fast for that particular day.

V If more people wish to volunteer for any day, so much the better.

V A person can even choose more than one day if he or she desires to.

V On an average, we will have 4-5 Parishioners fasting every day for the next 366 days.

2) What to do during the Fast? a) Skip one meal and spend that time in Prayer &

Worship. If possible make a good confession prior to the day of Fast & Prayer.

b) Attend Mass either in the morning or evening.c) Spend at least One Hour (Holy Hour) in the

presence of the Blessed Sacrament on the day of the fast for spiritual renewal. "…Could you not keep vigil with me for one hour?"Matthew 26:40A good way to spend an hour with our Lord in this manner is to divide your time into 15-minute segments as follows:

Suggested HOLY HOUR (The Hour of Power) (15 minute segments)

V Approach Christ, as always, with humility, contrition and love. Make your heart a vessel into which He can pour his grace. Unite your troubled heart with His Sacred Heart and ask Him for the wisdom and graces you need in difficult situations. Treat Him as you would one of your closest friends, with love and respect. Feel free to tell Him whatever troubles or pleases you (silently or very quietly, Silence is key for concentration in this intimate setting.

V Read God's Word, meditate on it, and ask God to lend you His Wisdom to gain a fuller understanding of it and to put it into practice. The more you learn about our faith through such reading, the deeper will be your experience with our Lord as He inspires you through His Spirit. The most brilliant ideas come from meeting God face to face, (so come with a notebook and jot down some of these thoughts)

V Pray for God's Will to be done in your life and pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.Ask God to lead you in spreading His Glory in the world we live in.

V Finally pray ardently to the Lord that He may send laborers into his vineyard by many of our young men and women desiring to answer God's call to the priesthood and religious life.

3) If Possible you may also do the following:a) Go for a prayer walk. Walk outside, hand in

hand with nature, while noticing God's wondrous creation. Thank Him for everything He has created as you walk. Ask Him to give you a spirit of thanksgiving and appreciation.

b) Donate the savings/proceeds from the Fast to any poor or deserving person or cause.

c) Pray for the welfare of others. Pray for church leaders to preach His Word as God intended, so that your friends and family members will grow closer to Him or accept Him into their lives; pray for government leaders to come to Him, and ask Him for His Will.

d) Close your fast with prayer. Take the opportunity again to express your purpose. Express gratitude for the opportunity to fast, and for being able to complete it!

So, will you sign up and Fast for Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life & other Intentions?

Finally when you Fast and Pray, consider this essential point:

“Your time spent with our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament counts for more than you think, possibly

for far more than you could ever imagine!”

SIGN UP FOR 366 DAYS FASTING RELAYJOIN THE PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTLY AND RELIGIOUS LIFE

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STORY TIME - THE FIRST CHRISTMAS TREEIn a forest in the far, far East grew a great many pine

trees. Most of them were tall trees, higher than the houses that we see, and with wide, strong branches. But there was one tree that was not nearly so tall as the others; in fact, it was no taller than some of the children in the kindergarten.

Now, the tall trees could see far, far out over the hilltops and into the valleys, and they could hear all the noises that went on in the world beyond the forest, but the Little Tree was so small and the other trees grew so high and thick about it that it could not see nor hear these things at all; but the other trees were very kind, and they would stoop down and tell them to the Little Tree. One night in the winter time there seemed to be something strange happening in the little town among the hills, for the trees did not go to sleep after the sun went down, but put their heads together and spoke in strange, low whispers that were full of awe and wonder. The Little Tree, from its place close down to the ground, did not understand what it was all about. It listened awhile, and then lifted its head as high as ever it could and shouted to its tall neighbor: "Will you not stoop and tell me what is happening?" And the big tree stooped down and whispered: "The shepherds out on the hilltops are telling strange stories while they watch their sheep. The air is filled with sweet music, and there is a wonderful star coming up in the east, traveling westward always, and the shepherds say that they are waiting for it to stop and shine over a humble stable in their little town. I have not heard why it is going to stop there, but I will look again and listen." So the tall tree lifted up its head again, and reached far out so that it might hear more of the wonderful story.

Bye and bye it stooped down again, and whispered to the Little Tree:

"Oh, Little Tree, listen! There are angels among the shepherds on the hills, and they are all talking together. They seem to be awaiting the birth of a little child, who will be a king among the people, and the beautiful star will shine above the stable where the little king will be laid in a manger."

The tree again raised its head to listen, and the Little Tree, much puzzled, thought within itself: "It is very strange, indeed.

* * *Oh, how I wish that I could see it

all!"It waited a little longer, and

everything grew quiet, and a great peace came upon the forest.

* * *Then suddenly the town,

and even the forest was illuminated with a strange,

white light that made everything as bright as day, and the air was filled with the flutter of angels' wings, and with music such as the world had never heard before.

The people and the trees, even the stars in the heaven, lifted up their voices and sang together and the whole world was filled with music and joy and love for the little Christ-child who had come to dwell upon the earth.

The Little Tree was filled with fear and wonder, for so great was the excitement that the other trees had almost forgotten it, and it could not understand the mysterious sounds; but bye and bye its tall friend said, "Listen, listen, Little Tree! Such news I have to tell! The Christ has come--the King! And the whole world is singing such beautiful music. There are wise men coming from the East, bringing beautiful gifts to the Christ-child. The angels, too, are upon the earth, and they bear gifts of gold and rare, beautiful stones. Wait! I will tell you more."

The tall tree had scarcely lifted up its head when it stooped again and whispered to the Little Tree, "Look! Look! Little Tree! They are coming this way; the angels are coming here, into our forest! Lift up your head high and you will see them as they pass."

The Little Tree lifted up its head and saw the white flutter of angel robes and heard the weird, sweet voices of the heavenly host who came with precious gifts into the forest.

"Oh," said the Little Tree, "they are coming here, toward me! What shall I do?" And in fear it bent its head so low that it almost touched the ground.

But the music came nearer and nearer, and the Little Tree felt a tender hand upon its branches, and a soft, gentle voice said to it, "Arise, Little Tree, and come

with us, for we have come into the forest to seek you. Yes, you, the very smallest among the trees, are to be

our gift-bearer. Come; lift up your head."In fear and trembling the Little Tree did as the

angel bade it. But when it looked into the angel's face and saw the love and kindness there, all

fear was gone, and it said to the angel: "Yes; make me ready. I will come with you to the

little Christ-child in the manger."So all the angels brought their gifts of

precious jewels and shining gold, and fastened them upon the branches of the

Little Tree. Then the leader of the angels' band took up the Little Tree

from the ground and bore it, laden with its precious burden, to the

feet of the Christ-child.

- Author Unknown

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Baptism - Born in Christ

Marriage - United in Christ

Death - Resting in Christ

22-11-2015 - Kezia Xavier -child of- Francis & Daisy22-11-2015 - Maria Xavier -child of- Francis & Daisy23-11-2015 - Ziva Stella Kute -child of- Mukesh & Lyplon06-12-2015 - Renee Darole -child of- Bipin & Sarika

16-11-2015 - Sameer Sinha -with- Siola Vania Fernandes08-11-2015 - Sinu Kurian -with- Divina Balan28-11-2015 - Clayton John D’Souza -with- Chelyn Pereira

1) 12-11-2015 - Rozario Fernandes - age 85 years- Sector 6, Vashi2) 24-11-2015 - Lily Mendonca - age 74 years- Sector 9, Vashi3) 03-12-2015 - Annie Fernandes - age 61 years- Sector 29, Vashi4) 15-12-2015 - Francis M Nadar - age 77 years- Sector 9, Vashi

We are publishing the photograph of our dear Parishioners who are resting with Christ in the preceding/current month.

In case of death of our parishioner the family may handover the photo of the departed family member along with the name, age & sector to the Vashi Vision Team or in the Parish Office, in case they desire so. (deadline announced in Church Notices)

1 2

COLOUR MECOLOUR ME

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F The Official Undertakers & Funeral Directors for all faiths. FWe supply all types of coffins (regular, polished and polished

floral coffins), brand new hearse, ambulance, imported lowering device, church truck (coffin stand), wooden cross, gloves and socks, floral tributes, rosary beads, etc.

FDispatch of mortal remains within the country and abroad. FWe also supply Portable Refrigerator Coffins, a very compact

piece, which can be kept at home using regular power-supply.

FWe understand your need to spend as much time with your loved one in these last moments and hence ther is no need to visit the shop.

FWe are just a call away. FAll arrangements will be made through that one call.

FWe have a very professional and considerate team to assist you in all your requirements.

Mr. Bellar Britto 9867064000, Mr. Ludgar Britto 9870483583, Mrs. Anita Britto 9867164000, Mr. Kailash Gutale 9867641470Email [email protected]

K.A.S. Homes, Survey No. 0495, Shop No.3,

Juhu Village, Sector 11, Besides C.I.S.F. Quarters

Vashi, Navi Mumbai

WE TAKE NO ADVANCE

SPEAK ENGLISH FLUENTLY

Tuition classes in all subjects from Std I to XII

Please Contact: Irene Moorthy

9987112966

We congratulate Fr. JOHN CYRIAC

of Good Shepherd Church, Sanpada who was ordained by

Rev. Bishop Savio Fernandes.

He celebrated his First Thanksgiving Eucharist at Sacred Heart

Church, Vashi on Sunday 13th December 2015.

May God bless him with a fruitful ministry !

CONGRATULATIONS - Fr JOHN CYRIAC S.J

14

Matheran Youth Camp

Women’s Commission - Violence Free Family Day Awards Function


VACATION BIBLE JOY - 2015

SENIORS--WINNIE, JUDY, RAJNI, JACQUIE

ANIMATORS PERFORMING FOR CHILDREN PARTICIPANTS WITH FR GERRY

JUNIORS---PRANEETA, CARMEN, RHEA, SR SEEMA

ASSEMBLY--KIMBERLY, NOEL, ANEESHA, SYLVIA, RICONI, PAUL, PETER, STELLA, MAUREEN

MORNING ASSEMBLY

MID JUNIORS--SR NITYA, MARIE, ESTHER, JUNE


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