BENDOOR CHURCH’S ‘DIVINE ECHOES’ CONCERT CELEBRATES CHILDREN’S FAITH AND TALENT THROUGH MUSIC, DANCE AND DRAMA
Faith, creativity and youthful talent came together in a spectacular celebration as Saint Sebastian Church, Bendoor, hosted ‘Divine Echoes’, a grand devotional concert organised by the Commission for Catechetical Apostolate in collaboration with the Parish children. Held at the Parish’s Platinum Jubilee Hall as part of the ‘Year of Children’ observance, the event featured an inspiring blend of devotional music, dance, instrumental performances, mime and drama, showcasing the spiritual enthusiasm and artistic abilities of children from Grade 1 to PUC.
The programme commenced at 6 p.m. with an impressive brass band performance by the Parish children, led by Master J.R. Furtado of Bantwal. The procession was joined by Parish Priests, catechism coordinators, teachers and religious sisters. Rev. Fr Joel Montheiro, Assistant Parish Priest and event convenor, welcomed the gathering.
The youngest participants captured the audience’s attention with a colourful presentation portraying biblical personalities, Marian apparitions and saints. Seventeen children enthusiastically brought these characters to life, supported and encouraged by their parents.
Children from Grades 1 to 4 presented a graceful dance to ‘Christ Be Our Light’, followed by a trilingual action song. The parish’s young instrumentalists impressed the audience with their rendition of the hymn ‘In Moments Like This’, displaying their musical skills on drums, ukulele, acoustic and bass guitars, violin and keyboard.
The spiritual fervour continued with students from Grades 5 to 7 presenting the popular Kannada hymn ‘Jaya Koduva Devarige’, followed by the energetic devotional dance ‘Taali Bajayenge, Nachenge’. A mime depicting the story of Creation conveyed a meaningful spiritual message through expressive movements.
A special felicitation ceremony honoured twelve talented children for their achievements. Eighteen altar servers were also recognised for their dedicated service at the altar and presented with mementos by the parish priests. Donor Ozwald Pais was present on the occasion.
In his presidential address, Parish Priest Rev. Fr Walter Dsouza appreciated the efforts of the event convenors, catechism teachers and volunteers. He encouraged parents to nurture devotional practices among their children and integrate faith into their everyday lives. Adding a delightful musical touch to the evening, the parish priests sang the Konkani song ‘Bhurgi Nenthi, Khalthi Bholi’, which received enthusiastic applause.
Students from Grades 8 to 10 enthralled the audience with melodious renditions of ‘Somya Deva Ajapta’ and ‘Abide with Me’, accompanied by a graceful dance performance. An inspirational play portraying the relationship between a father and son conveyed a positive message, while members of the Young Christian Students (YCS) movement enriched the devotional atmosphere with an elegant dance to the hymn ‘Aradhana Teri Aradhana’.
The concert also acknowledged the valuable contributions of parish pastoral council representatives, catechism teachers, choreographers, voice-over artists, technical teams and volunteers who worked behind the scenes. Special appreciation was extended to those involved in directing and recording the play, preparing choreography, managing sound and lighting, and providing photography and videography services.
The event was coordinated by the catechism team under the guidance of Rev. Fr Joel Montheiro, with the dedicated support of teachers, parents, religious sisters and parish volunteers. Jasmine Sarita Vas, Catechism Coordinator of Bendoor Parish, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the children, parents, sponsors and everyone who contributed to the success of the concert. Special thanks were also extended to the supporters of Mission Sunday. Rev. Fr Arun Lobo led the grace before the meal.
The entire programme was compered by Viola Lenza Dsouza and Leanna Jean Crasta with students also taking charge of individual segments.
The memorable evening concluded with a sumptuous meal provided by Nishwyn Caterers, under the leadership of young proprietor Alistair Dsouza. Ice cream was generously sponsored by Alwyn Pinto and family of Aroma Caterers.
Report: Mrs. Jasmine Sarita Vas, Catechism Coordinator, Bendoor Parish
