Mother’s Day Celebration at Udyavar Parish
The Commission for Women, Women Association and Mother Theresa Mahasang of parish joyfully came together to celebrate Mother’s Day with gratitude and love. The program was beautifully emceed by Mrs. Clara Fernandes, who led the gathering with warmth and grace.
The celebration began with a heartfelt welcome address by Ms. Gloria Pinto, setting the tone for the evening by acknowledging the selfless love of mothers who are the silent strength of every family.
On behalf of the Parish Pastoral Council, Mr. Wilfred D’Souza, Vice President, shared an inspiring reflection on the irreplaceable role of mothers. He reminded the faithful that “a mother is a gift, and her true value is often realized only when she is no longer with us.” His words struck a deep chord in the hearts of all present.
A special moment of the program was the honouring of Mrs. Margaret Fernandes, a mother whose life is a testimony of faith, sacrifice, and perseverance. Blessed with seven children, she worked tirelessly to secure their future, ensuring that four of her daughters were well-settled in marriage. Her unwavering faith bore fruit as well in her son, Rev. Fr. Francis Fernandes, SJ, who embraced his priestly vocation as a Jesuit. The parish gratefully recognized her as a symbol of strength, resilience, and unwavering maternal love.
The Chief Guest of the day, Mr. John M. D’Souza, extended warm wishes on the occasion of Mother’s Day. In his thoughtful address, he highlighted the essence of a mother through her service, sacrifice, love, correction, and forgiveness. In a touching tribute, he sang a heartfelt poem in memory of deceased mothers, moving the audience into a spirit of prayer and gratitude.
Mrs. Jyothi Fernandes then introduced the resource person of the day, Mrs. Pushpa Tauro, Headmistress of St. Francis Xavier School, Udyavar. In her address to the mothers, Mrs. Tauro beautifully reflected on the word ‘Aavoy’—a tender expression for mother—saying that it is one of the most beautiful words, for a mother gives life to a person. She explained that the very first experience of God’s love is through the mother. Through various touching examples, she illustrated how a mother gives her life for her children, though sadly many children often fail to recognize the true value of their mothers. Her words left a deep impression on the audience, stirring hearts with gratitude.
Adding further depth to the celebration, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Anil D’Souza, conveyed his heartfelt wishes to all mothers. In his message, he beautifully expressed that “blessed are the mothers, for they are the first to rise in the home and the last to rest at night. Mothers on earth are the visible face of God, and those who have gone before us continue to be with us as angels.” His words evoked both comfort and inspiration for the faithful.
The celebration concluded with a sense of joy and reverence, leaving everyone inspired to cherish and honour their mothers not just on this day, but throughout their lives.
