The Feast of our Lady of Mount Carmel 2016

The Feast of our Lady of Mount Carmel the patroness of our school is celebrated annually on July 16th. On this day we recall Mary’s motherly patronage, guidance and her loving care and protection.

This day is also celebrated as Foundation day of the Apostolic Carmel Congregation, which was founded by Venerable Mother Veronica, Foundress of the Apostolic Carmel in 1868 at Bayonne, France. Rooted in the contemplative spirit of Carmel, and nourished by its life of prayer and missionary zeal, the Apostolic Carmel expresses the vitality of the Church through its fruitfulness in the active apostolate of education and other works of mercy.

The Morning Mass at the Chapel was attended by all catholic students and teachers of the senior section. The Mass liturgy was conducted by the students of Class VIII and Rev. Fr. Andrew D’Souza, Parish Priest Bondel was the celebrant. After this began the cultural programme put up by Class X & XII. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Sr. Rose Agnes, Assistant Provincial Superior. The Programme started by seeking almighty’s blessings through a prayer service, followed by the significance of the day.

A Konkani folk dance performed by the girls of Class X entertained all. Music is the way to reach out to people. The nightingales of Class XII sang a sweet and enthralling song which was applauded by all.

Prophet Elijah’s encounter with God was enacted by the students of Class X. Then, a thrilling dance was performed by the girls of Class XII which left the crowd foot tapping and enchanted. The programme ended, when the students of Class X sang the song ‘Mary did you know’, which was befitting for the day’s theme.

After this the Chief Guest, Sr. Rose Agnes A.C. addressed the gathering. She said that “Carmel refers to garden and each and every student needs to be a beautiful flower in that garden”. Lisha Ann Pereira of Class X welcomed the gathering and Shravya of Class XII proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was compeered by Pia Menezes of Class XII and Roshna Narayan of Class X.

The junior section had the cultural programme presented by Class III C & D. The programme began by invoking God’s blessings through a Prayer Dance. They highlighted the importance of Carmel Feast through a meaningful skit and dance. This was followed by a song honouring Mother Mary.

The Chief Guest of the day Sr. Rose Marie A.C. addressed the students as flowers in the Mount Carmel Garden. She brought out the significant role of Mother Mary at the wedding of Cana. Mother Mary sensed the need of the hour and brought joy and happiness at the wedding feast, so also we should be the carriers of Joy and Happiness in the lives of others.

The programme was followed by the holy Mass for Catholic children and staff for the junior section by Rev. Fr. Sterwin S.C.J. In his homily he called the little girls and boys as beautiful and handsome. They could be beautiful and handsome by providing a helping hand to others.

The celebration concluded on a happy note by wishing everyone a happy feast and by distributing sweets to the children. This was followed by a staff get-together to share the family spirit with prayer, games and dance. A delicious lunch cemented this bond and strengthened the Mount Carmel family spirit.