Sep 3 2024 : The Teachers’ Day celebration at St Sebastian Church, Bendur, was a memorable event held on September 1 in the Platinum Jubilee Hall. The celebration was a fitting tribute to the educators who have played an integral role in shaping the lives of many within the parish community.

The event began with a special Holy Mass, dedicated to the teachers. The Mass was celebrated by Fr Maxim D’Souza, vicar of Jeppu Parish, who served as the main celebrant.

Following the Mass, the formal Teachers’ Day programme commenced in the Platinum Jubilee Hall. The programme started with a prayer song beautifully rendered by the catechism students, setting a reverent tone for the celebration.

The dignitaries present on the dais included chief guest Fr Maxim D’Souza, vicar of Jeppu parish, Fr Walter D’Souza, vicar of Bendur Parish, assistant parish priest’s Fr Lawrence Cutinha and Fr Vivek Pinto and Vinod D’Souza, vice president, and Patsy Britto, secretary of PPC.

The programme officially commenced with a welcome address by Vinod D’Souza, vice president of the parish pastoral council. Alistair Pinto from YCS delivered an insightful speech that highlighted the importance of teachers in the holistic development of students. The parish council members honoured the teachers with a special song composed by the vicar, Fr Walter D’Souza.

Joswin Pinto president of CAL introduced the chief guest, Fr Maxim D’Souza, who then addressed the gathering. In his speech, Fr. Maxim D’Souza spoke about the sacred duty of teachers and their influence on both the intellectual and moral development of students.

He expressed his deep appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

Prof Everist Crasta also spoke during the event, offering his views on the role of teachers. He extended his gratitude to them for their invaluable contributions to education and the community.

The celebration was further enlivened by cultural performances presented by CAL, YCS, and the Altar servers. Their dances, songs, and games provided entertainment and joy to the teachers, making the evening a lively and enjoyable experience.

Fr Walter D’Souza, Vicar, shared a special message with the teachers, reinforcing the parish’s appreciation for their contributions. Also, he thanked the commission convenors and members for organizing this event successfully. Additionally, a Bible quiz was conducted by Fr Maxim D’Souza and Fr Walter D’Souza, with enthusiastic participation from the teachers. The winners were awarded cash prizes sponsored by the teachers, adding a sense of community and mutual respect to the event.

As a token of gratitude and respect, all teachers were honoured with a gift, symbolizing the parish’s appreciation for their dedication and service.

The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr Vincent Crasta. He expressed his sincere appreciation to all those who made the event possible, including the organizing committee, the performers, and the parishioners who attended.

The evening was smoothly coordinated by emcees Anna Maria Patrao and Leona Cardoza, whose seamless compering kept the event flowing beautifully.

The celebration ended with a fellowship dinner prepared by the ladies front of the church, providing a final opportunity for the teachers and parishioners to share in the joy of the day. The event was a true testament to the parish’s appreciation for its educators, leaving everyone with a sense of fulfilment and gratitude.