The faithful of Mary Help of Christians Parish, Maligaon, celebrated their Parish Day on Sunday in a day of grace and togetherness. The occasion was made even more meaningful by the presence of the Most Rev. John Moolachira, Archbishop of Guwahati, who presided over the day’s events.

The festivities began at 9.00 am, when the parishioners gathered in large numbers at the workshop entrance to receive the Archbishop. They greeted him with the washing of hands and the sprinkling of water, signs of respect and purification, followed by the presentation of a bouquet and a phulam gamosa, the Assamese symbol of honour. A colourful dance then led the Archbishop and the gathering to the church, where the day began with morning prayer.

The Holy Eucharist began at 9.30 am. At the start of the Mass, Fr Barnabas Mardi, the parish priest, welcomed the Archbishop on behalf of the parishioners, expressing their happiness at having him among them on this special day. The Sisters of St Mary’s Convent had tastefully decorated the altar and sanctuary, lending beauty and dignity to the liturgy. Their candidates formed the choir, whose singing helped the congregation enter prayerfully into the worship.

During the Mass, the Archbishop administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to six children, sealing them with the gift of the Holy Spirit, while four others received Jesus in their First Holy Communion. The moment brought deep joy to the children and their families, surrounded by the prayers of the whole parish.

In his homily, Archbishop Moolachira addressed those receiving the sacraments, urging them to live their faith with courage and conviction, strengthened by the Spirit they had received. He reminded them that the sacraments are not the end of a journey but the beginning of a life of witness.

Reflecting on the day’s Gospel, the parable of the ten virgins, he emphasised the importance of remaining alert and watchful. As the wise virgins kept their lamps filled with oil, he said, every Christian is called to lead a holy life, ever prepared for the hour of death, when the Lord comes to call each one to Himself. His words invited the congregation to examine their lives and keep the flame of faith burning brightly.

After the Mass, snacks were served, allowing parishioners to greet one another and congratulate the newly confirmed and first communicants.

A felicitation programme followed, featuring songs and dances performed by the parishioners. The parish honoured the Archbishop and expressed its gratitude to all the Fathers and Sisters who serve the community with dedication. Mr Nathaniel Minj anchored the programme with grace, guiding the proceedings smoothly from item to item. At the conclusion, Mr Silas Bhengra, secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging everyone who had contributed to the day’s success.

The day concluded with a solemn lunch, lovingly prepared by Mr Mahendra Mathew Singh, Mr Silas Bhengra and his helpers, at which the parish family sat together in a spirit of fellowship.

The Parish Day was a happy expression of the faith, unity and vitality of the parish. Gathered around the Archbishop in prayer and thanksgiving, the parishioners renewed their commitment to grow together as a family of faith, under the loving protection of Mary Help of Christians.

News Courtesy: Fr Joy Joseph Kachappilly SDB