The Church of Our Lady of Vailankanni organized a vibrant and spiritually enriching event, ‘Samudayotsva’, on Sunday, 17th November 2024. The day was filled with activities and programs aimed at fostering community spirit and reflecting on the theme of Synodality.
The day began with the inauguration of Samudayotsva, followed by the Holy Eucharistic celebration at 8:00 AM, presided over by Bishop Francis Serrao SJ. The Parish Priest, Fr. Steevan D’Sa, delivered a thought-provoking homily that set the tone for the day’s reflections. After the Mass, the Bishop conducted an adult catechism class for all the elders of the parish, which received an enthusiastic response.
A community breakfast was served following the catechism session, fostering fellowship among the parishioners. The morning continued with a march past by the 11 Samudayas of the parish, showcasing their unity and enthusiasm. The church band, performed by the youth of the parish, added a lively spirit to the event.
The highlight of the day was the group performances by the various Samudayas, each creatively presenting parables from the Bible. These performances brought the Scriptures to life and were a testament to the collaborative efforts of all age groups—children, youth, and elders—working together.
The program concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, recognizing the efforts of the participating groups, followed by a vote of thanks. The Parish Priest, Fr. Steevan D’Sa, expressed his gratitude to the sisters, the BEC commission members, the PPC, the PFC, and all others who contributed to the success of the event.
Samudayotsva 2024 was a grand celebration of faith, unity, and community, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated. It was a true reflection of the spirit of Synodality, emphasizing the importance of walking together in faith and love.