Inauguration of the New Catechetical Year 2025-26 at Derebail Church Back

Inauguration of the New Catechetical Year 2025-26 at Derebail Church

The 2025–26 Catechetical Year was inaugurated at Derebail Church on Sunday, June 8, during the 9 AM children's Mass, following Diocesan Catechetical Centre guidelines.

The Holy Mass began with a procession involving altar boys, six children, a parent, Catechism teachers, parish leadership, and clergy. Upon reaching the altar, Fr. Joseph Martis led the opening rites centered on the theme: *Faith formed – Hope filled.*

Following Diocesan instructions, Fr. Martis presented the Holy Bible and "Catechism of the Catholic Church" book to the Catechists and distributed Catechism books to the students. A placard reading *Hope does not disappoint us*, along with a plant and water jar, was placed near the altar. The PPC Vice President Mrs. Sheela Dsouza, secretary Mr. Denzil Pinto, the coordinator of the 21 Commissions Mr. Anil Patrao and parents watered the plant, symbolizing the nurturing of hope by both family and the parish.

The inaugural concluded with a blessing from the parish priest, as children stood before the altar, accompanied by a Catechist, parent, and parish leaders behind them.

In his homily, Fr. Martis stressed the value of Sunday Catechism and urged parents to support their children’s faith journey with regular and timely attendance.

After the Apostles Creed, all Catechists gathered at the altar to pledge their dedication to teaching and proclaiming the Word of God. The children participated eagerly in the Mass.

Mrs. Monthi Andrade facilitated the inaugural ceremony and Mrs. Helen Menezes, Catechism Coordinator, organized it. The Children's Choir added to the jubiliation of the ceremony. The celebration was joyful and marked by strong parent participation and enthusiastic student involvement after the summer break.

Report by: Reema Pinto
Pictures: Roshan Fernandes 

Video by: Swedan Noronha