“ YOU ALSO SHOULD DO AS I HAVE DONE TO YOU ” ( JN 13 : 15 )
The Catechetical Cell of the Holy Family Church, under the guidance of our Parish Priest / Spiritual Advisor Rev. Fr. Caetano Fernandes and Assistant Parish Priest/ Catechetical Animator Rev. Fr. Alfi D’cruz has been effectively instrumental in the faith formation of the children of the parish. The Sunday Catechetical program covers children of the Parish from K.G. to Grade X and follows the Archdiocesan syllabus for Catechesis.
There are currently 25 Catechists on roll that work tirelessly as a team, throughout the year to help the children grow not only in faith but also build up their talents; thereby providing for an all-round development of the child. The Catechists focus on using latest technologies (PowerPoint Presentations, Audio-visuals, Teaching aids, etc.) towards making lessons more interesting and relevant. There are approximately 400 children enrolled.
Catechism begins with the 9.30 am children’s mass every Sunday followed by Catechism class, from June to February. Mass is celebrated in Konkani and English alternatively with each class from grade V onwards, organizing the liturgy, guided by their respective catechists. The homilies are specially prepared to cater to the children’s needs. Catechism classes are conducted in English.
Besides covering the regular Catechesis, the children are prepared for 2 Sacraments of Initiation –
The Sacrament of First Holy Communion ( Grade III)
Receiving the Eucharist for the first time is a deeply profound moment. It continues the faith journey begun at ‘Baptism’. The sacrament is administered to the children, after due preparation, on the second Sunday of January every year.
The Sacrament of Confirmation – (Grade X )
Confirmation is an essential building block of faith. It confirms a maturing of our relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. The candidates, on completing Grade IX, undergo special preparation by way of sessions on topics chosen to prepare them for their mission as young adults. The sacrament is administered to the children every 2 years.
Besides regular Catechesis, there are Catechetical activities such as celebration of Inaugural day, Grandparents day, Pastor’s day, presentation of different themes during the novenas for the Nativity of our Lady, Social awareness day, Children’s day, Bible quiz and Catechetical closing day, that further help in the spiritual and personal development of the children.
This year the catechetical cell organized a significant faith formation event “The Bible Fiesta” on 12th November 2023. It was a celebration of ‘ The Journey Of Our Faith’ through music, song, dance, acting and exhibits which involved the catechism children, catechists, youth and fellow parishioners. The Bible characters presented by the different classes were Jonah, Noah, Jacob, Moses, Tobit, Hosea, Daniel, Amos, Esther, Ruth and the Holy Family of Nazareth. The theme “ You are God’s Chosen Instrument” reminds us all to be “The MESSAGE Of Christ” to others.
The children and catechists also participate in external programs held by the Diocesan Catechetical Centre.
The Cherubs the children’s choir sing for the 9.30 am mass every Sunday helping the congregation to participate in the Eucharistic celebration joyfully through their melodious voices, trained by our enthusiastic teacher Elaine D’costa.
The Altar Servers under the competent and patient training of Fr. Alfi D’cruz serve all year round assisting our priests at mass.
The catechetical cell is grateful for the help and support rendered by parents and other parishioners.
