The parish community of St Joseph’s Church, Bajpe, came together in faith and joy to commemorate the Nativity of Mother Mary and celebrate the new harvest with family and tradition. The 9-day novena began on August 30, with enthusiastic participation from children and elders alike. Each day the novena began with Holy Mass at 5:30 PM, followed by the novena prayers, flower offerings to Infant Mary, and sweet distribution by generous well-wishers—spreading joy and fostering a spirit of togetherness.
On September 8, the Festal Ceremony commenced at 8 AM at the Parochial School, with the blessing of the new paddy, a symbolic act of gratitude for the harvest and a prayer for continued abundance. The congregation gathered in unity as Fr Jesudas D’Costa, Chaplain of St John Paul II Shrine, led the prayers and blessed the sheaves of paddy, which were then carried in a solemn procession to the church. The Festal Mass was celebrated with deep devotion, honouring Mother Mary, the patroness of families and farmers. Fr Vijay Monteiro was the main celebrant, with Fr Andrew Dsouza & Fr Jesudas D’Costa concelebrating and delivering an insightful and heartfelt sermon. The liturgy was further elevated by the children’s choir, whose melodious hymns created a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
