St Sebastian Church Celebrates Special Children’s Jubilee in Mangaluru

On December 18, 2023, St Sebastian Church in Bendur, Mangaluru, celebrated a Special Children’s Jubilee at St Agnes Special School. This event aimed to share the joy of Christmas with specially-abled children, reinforcing their dignity and unique role within the community and God’s plan.

A Joyous Celebration for Special Children

The ceremony was attended by key figures including Fr Walter D’Souza, the vicar of St Sebastian Church, and Fr Vivek Pinto, the assistant parish priest. Other notable attendees included Vinod D’Souza, the vice president, and Patsy Britto, the secretary, along with members of the Youth Commission and parish representatives.

Beginning on a prayerful note, the event featured a melodious prayer song performed by the children, creating a serene atmosphere. This was followed by a welcome dance that captivated the audience and set a joyful tone for the occasion. Sr Shruthi, principal of St Agnes Special School, expressed her gratitude to the parish for including special children in their Jubilee Year celebrations, highlighting the importance of love and inclusion.

Messages of Love and Acceptance

In his address, Fr Walter D’Souza emphasized the significance of special children as a divine gift, encouraging attendees to view Christmas as a time for love, compassion, and acceptance. He also performed a song that underscored the true meaning of Christmas, focusing on the importance of caring for the vulnerable.

The atmosphere was further enlivened by Christmas carols sung by the Youth Commission, which filled the hall with festive spirit. A highlight of the event was the arrival of Santa Claus, which sparked excitement among the children. They danced, interacted with Santa, and captured memorable photographs, creating cherished moments.

Throughout the celebration, various fun games were organized to accommodate all children according to their abilities. Participants received prizes for their efforts, and everyone was met with applause and encouragement, fostering an inclusive environment.

The event was compered by Narayan Sherigar, a teacher at St Agnes Special School, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the parish clergy, council members, volunteers, and all contributors. The day concluded with a special lunch enjoyed by all, marking a memorable and grace-filled Jubilee celebration.

The Special Children’s Jubilee served as a poignant reminder that the essence of Christmas lies in sharing joy, spreading love, and embracing all, particularly those who exemplify God’s love in its purest form.