The Sunday School Children at St Dominic Savio Parish, Garobadha.
The First Annual Sunday School Children Meet 2025 was celebrated with great devotion, enthusiasm, and vibrant community participation on 13th December 2025 at the parish campus of St. Dominic Savio Catholic Church, Garobadha. The day-long programme brought together more than 1,200 children and Sunday School teachers, fostering a spirit of faith, fellowship, and thanksgiving.
The programme commenced with registration from 7:30 am to 8:20 am, followed by the inaugural session at 8:30 am. The inauguration was prayerfully conducted with a common song, Gospel reading, and opening prayer, setting a solemn and spiritual tone for the celebration.
The flag hoisting ceremony was led by Rev. Fr. Siby John in the presence of Rev. Fr. Punit Kumar Lakra, the religious sisters—Sr. Elisha, Sr. Mijitha, and Sr. Clara—along with parish council members and representatives of various parish associations. A meaningful theme song highlighting Christian formation, faith, and commitment followed the ceremony. The welcome address, delivered by representatives of the Sunday School, warmly greeted the dignitaries, guests, teachers, parents, and students.
The cultural segment featured a series of well-coordinated and faith-based activities presented by different Sunday School units and circles. These included welcome songs, prayer dances expressing devotion and gratitude, and liturgical contributions that underlined the vital role of children in the life of the Church. The performances reflected careful preparation, teamwork, and a deep understanding of Christian values.
The Holy Eucharist, the central and most significant moment of the day, was celebrated at 9:30 am and presided over by His Lordship Most Rev. Bishop C. J. Jose DD, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Tura. In his homily, the Bishop encouraged the children to grow in faith, discipline, and moral values, reminding them of their responsibility as young witnesses of Christ in their families, schools, and society. The Eucharistic celebration deeply enriched the spiritual dimension of the gathering.
Following the Holy Mass, various competitions such as Quiz, Drawing, and Bible Games were conducted. These activities provided an engaging platform for children to express their creativity and demonstrate their biblical knowledge and understanding of faith.
A common lunch was served to all participants, fostering fellowship and unity among children, teachers, and parish members. The post-lunch session featured a slide show highlighting the activities and achievements of the Sunday School throughout the year, followed by prize distribution honouring the winners of the competitions and recognising the dedicated efforts of students and teachers. The Parish Priest, in his message, encouraged continued commitment to faith formation and appreciated the tireless service rendered by Sunday School teachers.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Shri Ronon T. Sangma, PPC Vice Chairman, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Bishop, parish priests, Sunday School teachers, organisers, students, parents, volunteers, and all contributors who made the event a grand success.
The celebration came to a close with the lowering of the flag, followed by music and dance, and participants departed for their respective places by 4:00 pm.
