Most Rev. John Moolachira, Archbishop of Guwahati along with the Parish Priest Rev Fr Augustine Karottupuram SDB, Rev Fr Joy Joseph SDB and the Catholic youths after receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation on Sunday.
The Parish Day of Mary Help of Christians, Maligaon, was celebrated with great devotion and joy on 21 September 2025, with Most Rev. John Moolachira, Archbishop of Guwahati, as the main celebrant of the Holy Eucharist.
During the special liturgical celebration, the Archbishop administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to eight young Catholics, marking an important milestone in their spiritual journey. The occasion was made even more memorable as one child from the parish received Holy Communion for the first time.
In his inspiring homily, Archbishop Moolachira addressed the dangers of excessive attachment to material wealth. Drawing from the teachings of Prophet Amos, he cautioned the faithful about how the pursuit of riches often comes at the expense of the poor, perpetuating cycles of inequality.
Reflecting on the parable of the wise Steward from the Gospel of St. Luke, the Archbishop urged the congregation to use wisdom in managing their spiritual lives. “Money is tainted, but we need to make use of it for our salvation,” he emphasized, reminding the faithful of Jesus’ words that no servant can serve two masters – one will either hate the first and love the second, as we cannot serve both God and money. He also explained the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, stressing its importance in the lives of the faithful.
The Archbishop received a traditional Assamese welcome from the parishioners, including the ceremonial washing of hands, presentation of a Phoolan gamocha, and a floral bouquet. Rev. Fr Augustine Karotupuram, Rector and Parish Priest, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Archbishop for his pastoral visit and for administering the sacraments to the parish community.
As a mark of respect for the iconic Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, who tragically passed away in Singapore, the planned cultural programme and community meal were respectfully cancelled; instead, parishioners were served tea following the Holy Eucharist before departing.
The preparation for this special celebration showcased the collaborative spirit of the parish community. Rev. Sr Pinky and the Sisters from St Mary’s Convent carefully prepared the children for receiving the sacraments. The aspirants and postulants from the convent enhanced the liturgical celebration with an entrance dance and sacred music during the Eucharist.
The Parish Council members, supported by generous contributions from parishioners, made all the arrangements to ensure a memorable celebration for everyone who attended.
The Parish Day celebration at Mary Help of Christians, Maligaon, served as a wonderful example of a faith community coming together in worship, service, and mutual support, even while honouring the memory of a beloved cultural figure.
News Courtesy: Fr Joy Kachappilly SDB
