60 more Eco Ambassadors for India

After six sessions and an assignment during September-October 2025, followed by project work, the online Certificate Course for Eco Ambassadors 2025 culminated with the valedictory session held on February 28, 2026, at which sixty participants from eleven dioceses across India received their e-certificates. The Course has been organised by the Archdiocesan Office for Environment (AOE) of the Archdiocese of Bombay since 2019, and the 2025 batch was conducted in collaboration with the Office for Environment and Climate Change of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) to mark the tenth anniversary of the encyclical Laudato Si'.

The valedictory session began with a welcome by the Course Coordinator, Ms Shawna Nemesia Rebello and an opening prayer written by Br Jubin Thomas, who completes his pastoral work with the AOE this academic year. Fr Luke Rodrigues SJ (Head – AOE) gave a recap of the Course, followed by formal feedback from two persons. Sr Smruti Parmar SHM of the Diocese of Ahmedabad stated, "The sessions were very motivational thanks to the excellent resource persons and their insightful presentations. The Course really helped deepen my understanding on environment issues and inspired me to take action. The assignment and project broadened my perspective on environment issues." She also noted how her project motivated the Self-Help Group women to segregate plastic from waste, and gave them a sense of ownership over waste management. Mr Gladwyn Lewis from the Archdiocese of Bombay (St Pius X parish, Mulund) appreciated the "interactive sessions, case studies, and examples of successful environmental initiatives. They made the learning experience engaging and relatable. The flexibility of the online format also made it easy to balance with other responsibilities, while still participating actively. Most importantly, the Course inspired me to think more critically about environmental challenges, and gave me the confidence and tools to take meaningful action as an Eco Ambassador."

Bishop Ivan Pereira of Jammu-Srinagar, the recently elected Chairperson of the CBCI Office for Environment and Climate Change, delivered a pastoral, passionate keynote address and felicitation remarks. He acknowledged the challenges faced in ecological stewardship, urged all to be sensitive and understanding of opposition, especially from clergy, and to stay motivated in caring for Creation.

The e-certificates were then displayed as the names of the participants were announced. After the group screenshot, Bishop Allwyn D'Silva (Spiritual Lead of the Course and former Chairperson of the CBCI Office for Environment and Climate Change, Bishop In-Charge of AOE) congratulated and formally commissioned the Eco Ambassadors. Following a pledge to make our lives a blessing for the Earth and a vote of thanks, new Eco Ambassadors, M. Vinod Amrithraj from the Archdiocese of Bangalore and Joelle D'Costa from the Archdiocese of Bombay (Orlem parish) read out the "We Are Sowers, Not Saviours" prayer (a contemporary reimagining of the Romero Prayer by Mr Steven Salido Fisher of the Laudato Si' Action Platform) in closing. The session ended with a final blessing imparted by Bishop Allwyn and Bishop Ivan.

With the closing of the 2025 batch, the AOE has now issued certificates to over 160 participants across all deaneries in the Archdiocese of Bombay and beyond. May the Lord of Creation continue to give us grace and strength to take forward the ecological mission

Shawna Nemesia Rebello

Bp Stephen: "Christ is the Heart of Our Liturgy"

March 8, 2026 marked a significant milestone for the graduates of the Advanced Liturgy Course as they celebrated their commencement ceremony. The occasion beautifully combined spiritual reflection with academic accomplishment and was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Bishop Stephen Fernandes, Fr Savio de Sales (Director of the Commission for Liturgy), and Fr Omar Fernandes, who was the keynote speaker.

The ceremony began with a solemn prayer service in the chapel of the Convent of the Daughters of St Paul in Bandra West. The graduates entered in a symbolic procession, each carrying a candle, creating an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation.

During the service, Bishop Stephen Fernandes personally blessed each graduate through the laying on of hands, invoking God's grace upon their future ministries. In a powerful symbolic act, the Bishop lit a candle from the Paschal Candle and passed the flame to the graduates, signifying the transmission of liturgical knowledge from the heart of the Church into the world.

The prayer service concluded with a moment of silent reflection and a special prayer for peace in the Middle East, linking the celebration to the wider concerns of the global community.

After the prayer service, the dignitaries, graduates and their families gathered in the auditorium for the formal programme. The assembly was welcomed with a graceful prayer dance performed by aspiring nuns from the Congregation of the Daughters of St Paul. Their movements drew the audience into a moment of prayerful focus on the divine.

In his address, Bishop Stephen Fernandes reminded the graduates that "Christ is the heart of our liturgy." He emphasised that the study of liturgy goes beyond academic pursuit; it invites believers to enter more deeply into the living mystery of Christ.

Fr Omar spoke about the relevance of liturgy for today's youth. He highlighted how the liturgy offers a sense of identity and belonging in a rapidly changing world, addressing contemporary doubts and encouraging young people to actively seek God.

Four graduates, representing both the youngest and the oldest members of the class, shared reflections on their personal journey through the Course. Their testimonies spoke of the challenges of grasping the profound mysteries of faith, the creative integration of modern technology with ancient traditions, and a renewed hunger to continue seeking God's love beyond the classroom.

Adding a touch of creativity to the celebration, the graduates presented a skit depicting the "behind-the-scenes" chaos in a church prior to Eucharistic preparations. Through humour and insight, the performance conveyed a deeper message; while much attention is often given to the external logistics of liturgical celebrations, equal importance must be placed on the interior preparation of the heart in order to truly encounter God in the liturgy.

The ceremony concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by the class monitors, Sandra Abraham and Alvito Fernandes, who expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the graduating cohort for the guidance, formation and growth they experienced throughout the Course.

Violet Robin D'Souza

Walking for Peace, Running with Hope

The third edition of the Sacred Heart Church (Andheri East) Marathon was held on March 1, 2026 with the theme: "Walking for Peace, Running with Hope". Spearheaded by Fr John Mascarenhas SVD, Parish Priest, a keen marathoner himself, and ably planned and executed under the leadership of Dr John Rodrigues, Mrs Anella Quadros, Mrs Shubhra Mendonca, the Core Team and volunteers, and supported by a group of like-minded marathoners and parishioners, the success of this venture was simply overwhelming. The Marathon was thrown open to parishioners of all ages.

This year's community-driven initiative aimed at promoting peace, health and social responsibility for the senior citizens of the parish, faced with challenges relating to healthcare and emotional well-being. The proceeds of the event will be channelled into funding cataract surgeries and wheelchairs for the financially underprivileged senior citizens of the parish.

The format was a little different this year; the Organising Committee invited the parishes of the Andheri Deanery to join and received an encouraging response from five parishes viz; St Vincent Palloti, Marol, St John the Evangelist, Marol, Holy Family, Chakala, Our Lady of Health, Sahar and St Blaise, Amboli, bringing the combined total of marathoners to 650+. The distances were pegged at 1 km; 3 km; 5 km and 7 km.

Attired in their Marathon T-shirts with the category bib and name of the participant pinned to the chest, the marathoners assembled at 5:45 a.m. on the ground to welcome the flaming torch carried in true Olympic style by Fr John, as he sprinted to the stage and placed the torch in its holder. Then followed the "warm-up" session by professional marathoners which helped with flexibility and muscle relaxation. Starting with the 7 km flag-off, each subsequent category eagerly awaited its turn to sprint, run or walk the distance they enrolled for, to the l Finish line. 

Lining the entire track of 7 km were volunteers offering an energy drink or water bottle as hydration; an equipped ambulance was on standby. At the halfway mark of each category, the participant received a coloured band signifying that he/she had accomplished half the route. At the Finish line, the marathoners were awarded a medal, and ushered to the breakfast section, where a healthy breakfast awaited them after their invigorating run. 

The selfie stands were an added attraction, with the participants forming a beeline at each, for a group/individual selfie in characteristic Olympic poses. The morning concluded with a Zumba session and the trophy presentation to the winners in the various categories. 

(Photographs on page 28 Print Issue) 

Candida Mendoza

A Walk with Jesus

Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS) Mumbai held an overnight walk at the Don Bosco Yuva Sanstha, Karjat on February 28, 2026. The darkness of midnight was illuminated by the light of faith, as 72 young people gathered on a night-long spiritual journey called 'Walk with Jesus'. 

After assembling at the Shrine of Don Bosco's Madonna, Matunga at 9:00 p.m., the group began its journey. Upon arrival, refreshments were provided, followed by a short period of time for everyone to settle in before the Walk began. As the Walk commenced, a brief reflection was shared by Marco from the Focolare Movement on the purpose of life and the importance of fulfilling the mission entrusted to each person during their time on Earth. After this, the group proceeded to walk the Stations of the Cross.

At each Station, the youth observed a brief moment of silence, allowing them to reflect on the Lord's Passion as well as on their own lives. Some of the youth volunteered to carry life-size wooden crosses and the crown of thorns as they made their way up the mountain, helping them physically identify with the suffering of Christ during His Passion. As the group moved from one Station to the next, hymns were sung, creating a prayerful and reflective atmosphere. Incense was used at the Stations, adding to the solemnity to the walk. The Way of the Cross concluded with a special blessing with the Relic of the True Cross.

Following the Stations of the Cross, the youth participated in the Holy Eucharist on top of the mountain, presided over by DBYS Youth Director, Fr Leon Cruz. After Mass, everyone bonded over their experience from the Walk, as they proceeded down the hill for breakfast. The youth had been asked to bring broken religious articles from their homes which were later buried with reverence. Mrs Valencia Dias thanked the priests of the community, after which the group headed home with amazing memories and hearts full of compassion, love, and belonging. This experience allowed the youth to connect with the events of Jesus' Passion, reflect on their own lives, and spend a night in prayer with Jesus.

Kimberley DSouza

Workshop on Non-Communicable Diseases

The Health Promotion Trust (HPT) of the Archdiocese of Bombay is happy to invite you to an informative and interactive workshop on Measures to Prevent and Control Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).

A majority of people today are affected by non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease (leading to cardiac arrest), cerebrovascular disease (leading to stroke), cancer, diabetes, and conditions like fatty liver, all of which are preventable through lifestyle changes. This workshop will address practical steps towards a healthier and disease-free life.

Workshop Details

• Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026 (a public holiday)

• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

• Venue: Parochial Hall, St Joseph Church, Juhu, Mumbai 400049 (next to the BEST bus depot)

• Resource Team: Dr Sathyanath, Chief Medical Officer and his team from National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN), Pune; AYUSH Ministry, Govt of India

• Registration cost: Rs 200 (subsidised) with breakfast and lunch

• Priests and Religious Sisters are welcome to attend. 

• For Registration and enquiries, contact: 96190 01142/73045 21042 or email healthpromotiontrust@gmail.com on or before March 24, 2026.

Fr Rocky Banz, Director – HPT

CTC Graduation Day – A Celebration of Faith and Commitment 

On March 1, 2026, the long-awaited 32nd Catechists' Training Course (CTC) Graduation Ceremony finally arrived. Weeks of preparation had led to this special day, with planning and rehearsals beginning even before the formative weekend at Lonavla. 

Dressed in their Sunday best, the newly trained catechists arrived early at Mount Mary Convent High School, accompanied by families and friends who came to share in this joyful milestone. The hall soon filled with a lively buzz of excitement. 

The Chief Guest, Archbishop John Rodrigues, was warmly welcomed by Natasha and Alstin. The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries: Archbishop John Rodrigues, Fr Vincent D'Cruz (Course Director), Clifford Lobo representing the animators, and Johnston Borges representing the catechists. 

A beautifully compiled welcome video by Anaia transported the audience back to the days of learning and formation, rekindling cherished memories of the experiences and friendships built during the Course.

In his address, Archbishop John Rodrigues highlighted the profound responsibility entrusted to catechists. He reminded them of the vital role they play in nurturing faith and guiding those entrusted to their care. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the DCC team, as well as to the families and friends whose support and encouragement made this journey possible.

The testimonies shared by Jansi Dharmaraj, Mary Benson, Xenia Soares, and Sharon Pires were deeply moving. Their reflections offered a glimpse into the journey of the Course—its challenges, joys and moments of spiritual growth. Their stories of personal transformation, shared learning, and meaningful group interactions resonated deeply with the audience, touching many hearts, and even bringing a few tears.

A thoughtfully scripted and beautifully enacted skit followed, highlighting the importance of connection between teachers and students. Through its powerful message, the performance illustrated how educators can walk beside their students, supporting them and building relationships that leave a lasting impact.

One of the most significant moments of the evening was when Archbishop John Rodrigues conferred diplomas upon the 47 graduating catechists, in the presence of their mentors and an audience of more than 300 persons, to resounding applause.

In his concluding remarks, Fr Vincent D'Cruz addressed the gathering and expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the programme. He acknowledged the mentors, parents, catechists, and award recipients, highlighting their dedication and meaningful contributions to the formation journey.

A solemn prayer service, enriched by a beautifully choreographed prayer dance, drew the participants into a deeper awareness of the Divine presence. The prayer intentions were offered with humility and trust, affirming the belief that God always provides what is best for               His children.

As the ceremony concluded, everyone departed with hearts filled with gratitude and joyful memories. Each trained catechist left with a renewed commitment—to bring the message of Jesus to their students, their communities, and to all those they encounter.

Ms Sharon Pires

Grace, Strength and Service – Women's Day Celebration at St Paul Church

Women's Day is a meaningful occasion to celebrate the unique, God-given gifts of women and to acknowledge their invaluable contributions to the family, the Church, and society. It is also a time to honour the quiet sacrifices, loving service, and steadfast faith through which women enrich the lives of those around them.

On March 7, 2026, St Paul Church, Dadar, joyfully celebrated Women's Day with a special Eucharistic celebration at 7:00 p.m., presided over by our Parish Priest, Fr Austin Norris.

In his homily, Fr Austin reflected on the Samaritan woman in the Gospel, highlighting the strength, faith, and resilience that women embody. He reminded the faithful that just as the Samaritan woman encountered Christ and became a witness to others, women today continue to be powerful bearers of faith and hope within their homes and communities. He emphasised the vital role women play in nurturing families, strengthening the Church, and contributing positively to society through their compassion, dedication, and leadership.

After Holy Communion, Fr Austin invited all the women present to gather at the foot of the altar. There he offered a special prayer of blessing and sprinkled them with Holy Water, invoking God's grace, protection, and guidance on each of them. It was a deeply touching and prayerful moment as the women received the blessing with joy and gratitude, their faces reflecting the happiness of being honoured and appreciated.

After the Eucharistic celebration, the gathering moved to the School hall, where a lively programme of music and entertainment awaited the participants. Scrunchies in four different colours were distributed to the women, forming groups for the various activities planned for the evening. Snacks were served as everyone settled into a warm and friendly atmosphere of fellowship.

Each participant wrote her name on a slip of paper, that was later used in a fun and interactive Name Housie game. The programme began with a colourful march-past, setting an enthusiastic and energetic tone for the evening. This was followed by an action song, dance performances, and a series of engaging games that filled the hall with laughter and excitement. Participants cheered one another enthusiastically, creating a vibrant and joyful spirit of celebration. Spot prizes added to the excitement and encouraged lively participation from everyone.

The celebrations concluded with a delicious dinner, shared in an atmosphere of joy, unity, and togetherness. It provided a wonderful opportunity for the women of the parish to interact, strengthen bonds of friendship, and celebrate the gift of community.

As they departed, each one received a beautiful bookmark as a token of appreciation and remembrance of the occasion — a symbol of gratitude for their loving service and dedication to their families, the parish, and society.

The evening truly reflected the spirit of grace, strength and service that women bring to the Church and the world.

Fely Lopes

A Biblical Exhibition on the Origin of the Bible 

"Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path" (Psalm 119:105). With these inspiring words, the parishioners of Sacred Heart Church, Vashi, witnessed a remarkable and engaging exhibition titled "How We Got the Bible" held on February 28 and March 1, 2026. 

The exhibition, organised by the Bible Cell to commemorate its 11th anniversary, offered visitors a fascinating journey through the history and formation of the Bible. Thirty informative panels were arranged in the church quadrangle, each illustrating different aspects of the Bible's history and development. Volunteers explained the panels to groups of community members, Sunday School children, RCIA candidates, and the general public. The panels highlighted the various materials used over centuries for writing the Bible, ranging from primitive stone surfaces to more refined materials such as animal skins, clay tablets, metal, wood, and papyrus. Visitors also learned about the original languages of the Bible – Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Displays on scribal work and ancient manuscripts illustrated the painstaking efforts through which the sacred texts were preserved and transmitted across generations.

One section presented a timeline of the Old Testament and shed light on the structure of its books: the 16 Historical books, 18 books of Prophecy, seven books of Wisdom, and the seven Deuterocanonical books. The exhibition also featured the Council of Trent, which affirmed that divine truth is contained both in Sacred Scripture and in Sacred Tradition handed down within the Church. Other displays focused on the New Testament, including the four Gospels, the Pauline and Catholic Letters, and the Book of Revelation. Visitors were reminded that Revelation is not a prediction of the end of the world, but rather a message of hope—encouraging believers to remain ready at all times and to trust that God will ultimately wipe away every tear.

Each panel offered new insights into the Bible, enlightening visitors and deepening not only their knowledge, but also their faith. The Bible Cell expressed heartfelt gratitude for the success of the event to the Parish Priest, Fr Adrian Ferreira, for his support and generous assistance, and to Fr Walter D'Souza, Director of the Archdiocesan Bible Commission, for providing the Exhibition materials.

The Exhibition concluded with a Vote of thanks, and every visitor received a Scripture verse sticker as a small token and reminder of the Great Commission—Jesus' command: "Go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."

Nataline G. Buthello 

North Bombay Deanery Youth hosts Lenten Praise  & Worship 2026

On March 1, 2026, the Second Sunday of Lent, the Youth Council of the North Bombay Deanery organised a spiritually enriching evening titled "Transformatively Transfigured", featuring Eucharistic Adoration and a vibrant Gospel Band during the penitential season of Lent.

Around 85 young people from 13 parishes across the deanery gathered in the auditorium of St Michael Church, Mahim, coming together in unity to praise and worship the Lord with enthusiasm, faith, and devotion. The event aimed to bring young people together in prayer, glorify God, and experience Christ's forgiving love, inspired by the words of Matthew 18:20 – "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."

The event commenced at 4:00 p.m. with participant registrations, followed by an energetic Gospel Band session, performed entirely by members of the Youth Council. The lively worship atmosphere quickly awakened everyone from the afternoon lull as participants joyfully sang, danced, and praised God. 

The praise session was followed by a special Lenten talk titled "Lent & Lens," delivered by Fr Joyston Machado SDB. With remarkable enthusiasm and relatability, Fr Machado presented a creative and thought-provoking reflection, drawing a powerful analogy between the season of Lent and the lens of a DSLR or smartphone camera.

During the short break, participants were given slips of paper to write their personal prayers, intentions, and petitions, which would later be offered to God during Eucharistic Adoration.

The highlight of the evening was the Exposition of the Most Holy Eucharist for a time of healing and adoration. As the hall dimmed, the atmosphere was filled with reverence and quiet anticipation, reflecting the gentle light of Christ. The Gospel Band guided the congregation into deeper prayer through hymns such as "Above All," "Ulagamellam Marakudhaiyaa," "Bless the Lord, O My Soul," and "Lord, I Need You."

During this sacred time, Fr Leon Cruz (Deanery Youth Coordinator) and Fr Cliffton Mendonca (Parish Youth Director, St Michael, Mahim) made themselves available to hear the confessions of the youth, offering many the grace of repentance, reconciliation, and renewal. The written prayer intentions of the participants were collected and placed before the Blessed Sacrament, entrusting every need to God's infinite mercy and grace.

As the Adoration concluded, several youth were visibly moved by the experience, many brought to tears by the profound encounter with God.

The Deanery Youth Representative, Mr Nelson Sadanand, delivered the Vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved—from the attendees to the organisers and the priests—for their dedication and contribution in making the gathering a success.

The Lenten Praise and Worship evening proved to be a truly grace-filled and transformative experience, leaving every participant spiritually renewed, strengthened in faith, and filled with the peace and love of Christ.

Muriel Coutinho and Shaun Pascal Pereira

Heart2Hand: A Youth Lenten Outreach 

The season of Lent is traditionally anchored in the three pillars of Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving. While we often focus on our personal discipline of what to give up or fast from, we frequently forget that these sacrifices are meant to create space for others. On March 1, 2026, the South Bombay Deanery Youth organised "Heart2Hand" – an initiative designed to live out our identity as the hands and feet of Christ, by shifting our gaze towards almsgiving, not merely as a monetary donation, but as the almsgiving of presence, giving our time, our ears, and our hearts to our brothers and sisters often overlooked in society. By doing this, we were also following the message of our Holy Father, Pope Leo, who said that our Lenten sacrifices must be connected to the community, and include the poor and the suffering. 

The morning began at 10:00 a.m. as about 85 youth from across the South Mumbai Deanery, divided into six teams, set out for their assigned locations. This was an intentional reminder that we serve not as isolated individuals or parishes, but as one Body of Christ, taking us into six care homes across South Mumbai. These were Piety Home, All Saints Home, Arrupe Niwas, Sankalp Rehabilitation Centre, St Anthony's Home and St Elizabeth Hospital. We interacted with senior citizens, children and the sick. The experience at each of these places was unique, and cannot be put into words. It is sufficient to say that each team had done its homework, coordinating with these Centres and Homes in advance, putting together an entertaining programme for the residents, and even raising contributions from their pocket money to carry gifts and tasty food items for the 'friends' they were visiting that morning. 

In those rooms, the labels of 'patient' or 'resident' vanished. We were talking with people who are just like us, humans with dreams to chase and scars to heal. It was a clear reminder that every person, regardless of location, is exquisitely crafted in the Imago Dei (Image of God). There is no 'us volunteers helping them in need'; just an attempt to imitate a fraction of humility Christ reflected, who lived His life in service to others.

At 12:30 p.m., the teams converged at O.L. Rosary Church, Dockyard, for the celebration of the Eucharist. During the Eucharist, the liturgy of the Transfiguration mirrored the eye-opening experiences we had earlier that morning. Fr Joshan Rodrigues, our Deanery Youth Coordinator, spoke about how we are called to carry Christ in our actions, specifically referencing the mandate: "As you did it to the least of my brothers, you did it to me." This was a call to move beyond the church premises; while we see Christ in the Eucharist, we are called to recognise Him just as clearly in the 'least' among us.

After Mass, one member from each team shared a brief testimony. The common thread was a profound sense of gratitude. Many youth reflected on how easily we take basic blessings for granted – the presence of our parents, our physical health, the health of our loved ones or the simple comfort of a home. We went to these centres thinking we were bringing "help," but we returned realising we were the ones who had been humbly enriched.

The day concluded with a shared lunch, a time of fellowship, where the mixed teams bonded over their shared experiences. While "Heart2Hand" was organised as a Lenten observance, the overwhelming sentiment and collective agreement was that this cannot be a seasonal event. Lent gave us momentum, but the faces of those we met gave us purpose. We hope to continue this journey, carrying Christ in our hearts and manifesting Him through our hands, long after the purple vestments are put away. 

(Photographs on page27 Print Issue) 

Zene Rego 

Celebrating Faith, Service and Joy: Altar Servers Rally 

The South Mumbai Deanery Altar Servers' Rally was held with great joy and enthusiasm on March 8 at Holy Name Cathedral, with the theme "Celebrating Faith, Service and Joy." The programme was guided by Fr K.T. Emmanuel, Deacon William, Bro. Paul, Sr Louisa, Sr Rani, and Sr Remy from the Congregation of Jesus and Mary, along with the support of the parishioners. Ms Selma from Rosary Church, Dockyard Rd, the Altar Servers' Lay Coordinator in charge of the South Mumbai Deanery, guided the entire programme. The rally began with a welcome speech by Fr Emmanuel. Selma conducted an interesting Bible game; the altar servers had to identify whether a name belonged to the Old Testament or the New Testament. If the name was from the Old Testament, they moved to the right, and if it was from the New Testament, they moved to the left. Through this fun activity, they were able to learn more names from the Bible in an enjoyable way. 

Fr Joshan Rodrigues addressed the altar servers, reminding them about the importance of building a close relationship with Jesus. The fact that they stand closer to the Holy Altar than the rest of the congregation at Mass implies a privilege and a unique responsibility to lead a life guided by Christian values. Through their life and witness, they must attract other children to Jesus. He encouraged the children to remember that wearing the altar server's vestment is a special responsibility and privilege. 

The Rally also included games that helped the altar servers get to know one another, an action song, and a quiz competition on the liturgical items used during Mass. A total of 41 altar servers participated in the Rally from different parishes in the deanery.