Urban Justice Capacity Building Programme

The Justice & Peace Commission and Federation of Centres for Community Organisation is organising a course on "Urban Justice Capacity Building" for the staff of CCOs and others who have experience in Social Work. The course will be coordinated by Dr Vaishali Patil & Team. 

The course will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the following dates: July 31-Aug. 01 (Thurs-Fri), Sept. 16-17 (Tues-Wed), Nov. 27-28 (Thurs-Fri). Venue: Bio-Medical Ethics Centre, St Pius X College Complex, Goregaon East.

Topics covered: PM Jan Man Yojanas, Safety Audits, Conducting Public Hearings, PILs, Gender Budgeting. 

The course will be conducted in English, Hindi & Marathi. Registration Fees: Rs 1000/- per person. 

A Certificate of Participation will be given at the end of the course. You are requested to confirm your participation through the Google Form link (QR code) and make the payment online (please scan the QR code). Kindly share the payment details along with the participants' names to drtcjpc@gmail.com or on 98200 93121 before July 20.

Chief Justice of India visits his alma mater, Holy Name High School, Colaba

Holy Name High School, Colaba erupted with the deafening sounds of cheer and applause from students lined up against the parapets on every floor of the school, looking over the quadrangle. One of the school's most prestigious alumni had stepped out from the main car of the convoy that had come to a halt in the quadrangle. The Chief Justice of India, Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, had returned to his alma mater almost 50 years after completing his matriculation through the school. 

Mr Gavai took oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India on May 14, 2025. He told the Holy Name School community gathered in the school hall to greet him, that though he wanted to become an architect and had dabbled a bit in various other professions, it was his father who was firm that he should pursue a career in law. Justice Gavai's father, Ramakrishna Suryabhan Gavai, also known as 'Dadasaheb', was a former Governor of Bihar and a prominent Dalit leader. 

Justice Gavai was born in Amravati, and his early years of education were at the municipal primary school in Amravati. His family later shifted him to the Chikitsa Samuh Madhyamik Shala in Mumbai when his father became the Deputy Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. His brother and sister were students at a convent school, and his mother, Kamaltai, felt Justice Bhushan, studying in a Marathi medium school, would lag behind in English. She was the one who insisted on enrolling him at Colaba's Holy Name High School. Justice Gavai studied at Holy Name from 1973 to 1976, clearing his matriculation. 

Addressing the students, one of whom asked him how the school had contributed to his stellar rise and success, he said that though the school was run by a Christian priest as Principal, and had Christians as teachers, the values of secularism, justice, equality and compassion were deeply ingrained in all of them. He recalled the Moral Science classes that he attended that formed the foundation of his values and principles, which continue to impact his legal judgments to this day. He looks at his position as one that can impact the lives of millions in India with the stroke of a pen. But there is immense satisfaction when even a single widow is given back her home, after many years of legal dispute, by the final ruling of the Supreme Court. 

Justice Gavai was felicitated by Archbishop John Rodrigues, Bishop Dominic Savio Fernandes, Fr Constancio Noronha (Manager of the school), and Sr Lawrencia PSOL (Principal). A prayer dance performed by the students was followed by a short video that gave a glimpse into his early years, and subsequent life, focusing on his early years in the legal practice. 

Archbishop John thanked him for being a defender and promoter of justice, and for being a model of hard work, passion and humility for the students to emulate. "To witness an alumnus ascend to the position of Chief Justice of India is a resounding affirmation of the holistic formation—shaping both character and intellect—that Catholic institutions strive to provide. His life and service embody the values we seek to impart", he said. 

Sr Lawrencia PSOL, Principal, expressed the collective sentiment of the school: "Welcoming Chief Justice Gavai back to Holy Name is incredibly inspiring for our students and staff. His journey from these classrooms to the Supreme Court is a beacon of possibility, demonstrating the heights that can be achieved through dedication, integrity, and the strong foundation received here. He stands as a magnificent role model for our current generation."

Visibly moved on returning to his alma mater after so many years, Justice Gavai expressed his deepest gratitude to his Principal, his teachers and colleagues who had supported him, guided him, and moulded him into the person he is today. 

Indeed, a moment of great pride for Holy Name High School to see one of its own seated on the highest seat of the Indian Judiciary today. 

The Examiner Reporter 

Silent Protests to protect Uttan Dongri's forest cover

On Sunday, July 6, a wave of silent protest swept across the Archdiocese of Bombay, uniting parishes and residents in a powerful demonstration against the proposed felling of nearly 12,000 trees in Uttan Dongri. The protest, led by local villagers, environmental advocates, and church communities, was in response to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority's (MMRDA) plan to construct a car shed for Metro Line 9 on a forested hillock.

The forest, nestled near Bhayandar, is one of the last remaining green lungs in the region. It is home to a variety of native flora and fauna, natural water sources, and holds cultural and ecological significance for the local communities. The planned deforestation for infrastructure development has raised widespread concern about irreversible damage to biodiversity, groundwater recharge zones, and the overall environmental balance of the area.

Despite police restrictions on public gatherings in the area, demonstrators peacefully lined the streets, waving black flags and holding placards to voice their opposition to the planned destruction of forest land. The rally extended from Bhayandar to Uttan-Pali Chowk, drawing hundreds in solidarity with Dongri's residents.

"Metro infrastructure is essential, but it cannot come at the cost of forests, water sources, wildlife, and the wellbeing of local communities," said Bishop Allwyn D'Silva. "Development must be sustainable. There are viable alternative sites, and it is imperative that voices of experts and citizens be heard before irreversible damage is done."

Environmentalists and legal advocates also lent their voices to the cause. "Cutting down 12,400 trees for a car shed is not only alarming; it's unacceptable," said Advocate Godfrey Pimenta. "This isn't just about deforestation; it's about a flawed and short-sighted approach to urban planning. Trees reduce heat, purify air, and sustain biodiversity. To sacrifice them, when alternatives exist, questions the very priorities of our governance."

The MMRDA's project is part of the 13.5 km extension of the Dahisar-Bhayandar Metro corridor, itself an offshoot of Metro Line 7. The car shed is slated to be built on a 12-hectare site, which environmentalists and locals warn is home to a dense green cover critical to the region's ecology.

Zonal Bishop Allwyn D'Silva had earlier urged all parishes in Mumbai to stand with the Dongri community. "We must act now to protect our environment," he wrote to local churches. As a result, the protest was not limited to the Uttan-Dongri belt. Churches across Mumbai, including those in Thane, Mahim, Marol, Sahar, Kurla, Kalina, and Saki Naka, joined in solidarity, holding up banners and flags to amplify the message from Dongri.

Fr Oscar Mendonca, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Bethlehem, Dongri, emphasised the urgency: "This silent protest, marked by black flags, is meant to show that we will not remain passive as our forests are destroyed." Concerns are not only environmental, but also health-related. "This area is already reeling from the effects of nearby dumping grounds. Now, they want to remove our oxygen source too," said Fr Mendonca. "Cutting down 12,000 trees would be catastrophic."

Protesters have demanded that the Government immediately halt tree-cutting activities, explore alternative non-forested sites for the car shed, and establish an independent Environmental Committee to evaluate the full ecological impact. Additionally, they called for greater public participation in future urban planning efforts.

Fr Edward Jacinto, Dean of the Bhayandar Deanery, described the protest as a collective outcry that cut across religious, linguistic, and cultural lines. "This is not just a local issue; it's a life-or-death matter for everyone who breathes this air," he said.

As this grassroots movement grows, protestors hope their silent resistance will compel the authorities to reconsider what they call an "ecological mis-step" in the name of development.

Deepen Your Faith Course Inaugurated 

The 33rd consecutive edition of the Deepen Your Faith course was inaugurated on June 28 at St Andrew's College, with Bishop Dominic Savio Fernandes presiding as Chief Guest.

Initiated by Adv. Joaquim Reis, the course has been running successfully for over three decades, and continues to grow in strength and relevance. Its sustained impact and popularity make it a truly noteworthy spiritual initiative. Participants, many of whom travel from distant regions—including remote hinterlands—faithfully attend the weekly sessions, drawn by a shared thirst for deeper spiritual understanding.

Each year, the course adopts a unique theme, carefully curated by a dedicated core team of experts, including Bishop Agnelo Gracias, Fr Aniceto Pereira, and Fr Gilbert De Lima. These themes aim to provoke thought and foster reflection, linking scriptural insights from the Bible to contemporary real-life experiences. Through the stories of the people in the Bible—their trials and triumphs—participants are encouraged to identify with both past and present faith journeys. This ongoing narrative of the Chosen People and the Gentiles reminds us of the transformative power of faith, rooted in the abundant hope offered by the Crucifixion.

The call to deepen one's faith is a daily one. This course supports that call by providing participants with profound insights and spiritual challenges delivered by carefully selected speakers. The journey of faith nurtured here often becomes the very foundation for the spiritual awakening of others.

This year's theme is: "The Spiritual Foundation of the Jubilee Year – Pilgrims of Hope."

In his opening address, Bishop Dominic Savio Fernandes affirmed that the consistent enrolment over the years stands as a powerful testimony to the enduring hope of those who seek to serve the Lord. He quoted our late Holy Father, Pope Francis, who called on the faithful to embrace the Jubilee Year as a community of hope.

He highlighted how this course is not just a programme, but a transformative journey. As pilgrims, we anchor our hope in the promises of Christ and walk in relationship with God and one another. This synodal journey challenges rigid structures, and opens pathways to renewal. Just as the early Church faced immense trials, yet thrived as a united community of believers—across divisions of faith and social standing—the Church today must remain open and inclusive, never a closed circle.

"Hope," he reminded the gathering, "is the steadfast companion of every believer. It is not dependent on external success—and it does not disappoint—for God walks with us."

In line with this year's theme, the first half of the course will explore the metaphor and meaning of Pilgrimage, with all its highs and lows. The second half will focus on Hope and its significance in daily life. As Bishop Dominic Savio emphasised, pilgrimages are rarely easy, but we are people of the Resurrection. The course, he noted, equips attendees to live authentically, to grow in holiness, and to deepen their love for Scripture—truths they, in turn, pass on to others.

A moving testimony by Stephanie, one of the participants, illustrated the transformative power of the Deepen Your Faith experience.

Now in its 33rd year, Deepen Your Faith continues to build a rich, spiritually grounded community—one that draws from the wisdom of past years and nurtures a deep, enduring faith in all who take part.

Lira D'Mello

Vocation Promoters Meet 2025

On June 29, 2025, the feast day of Saints Peter and Paul, a group of 110 enthusiastic Vocation Promoters, comprising of Religious Women from 33 different congregations, along with Diocesan and Religious Priests and Brothers of the Archdiocese of Bombay convened at Sarvodaya, united in a shared mission to foster vocations and nurture the seeds of faith in young hearts.

The meeting began with a reflective and soulful prayer service by Bro. Nelson and Bro. Alwyn, accompanied by Bro. Robinson on the guitar, seeking God's blessings on the meeting and the mission. The key convenor, Fr Walter D'Souza, set the tone for the meeting by welcoming the participants, and outlined the objectives and importance of collaborative efforts in promoting vocations within the Archdiocese. 

Fr Joyous, a newly ordained young priest, shared from the Word of God on Mary's response to the angel which helped the participants to reflect on Vocation calling. His experience and insight provided clarity and encouragement, as well as helped to address challenges faced by Vocation Promoters.

Olicia and Joyed, both aspiring to religious life, shared how they experienced God's call. Their Vocation testimonies offered a new perspective to fostering vocations.

Deanery-wise groups were created to enable the participants to meet the various religious within their deanery, to discuss and plan Vocation events with the help of the planner shared by the DVSC team, and also to elect Religious Women Vocation Coordinators to collaborate and represent the Deanery. A brief sharing and exchange of ideas helped the participants to create plans for the future. 

To equip Vocation Promoters in this journey of Vocation Promotion, a "Vocation Kit" book created by the DVSC team, comprising of various topics related to Vocation and discernment, was made available. A Vocation prayer booklet was distributed to each participant, encouraging them to pray for vocations.

The Vocation Promoters Meet was a resounding success, marked by meaningful sharing, collaborative planning, and a spirit of joy and unity. 

Sr Victoria, Daughters of Presentation of Mary in the Temple 

EMHCs commissioned

On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ was celebrated with great reverence. As is tradition, the day marked the commissioning of the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs).

The choir at St Anne Church, Mazagaon, was in excellent form, adding a sense of grandeur as the solemn entrance procession—including Altar Servers, EMHCs, and the Celebrant—made its way to the altar.

The liturgy was celebrated with deep meaning and reverence, befitting the solemnity of the occasion. During the Commissioning Rite, the congregation extended their hands in blessing over the 16 EMHCs as Fr John Lobo pronounced the solemn prayer. Each minister received a commemorative Jubilee Year magnet. A first-time EMHC presented her pyx and Cross after Communion.

Following a group photograph in the church, a brief celebration was held with cake, coffee, snacks, and a fun activity. As a thoughtful gesture, Fr John Lobo SJ, Parish Priest and Spiritual Director of the Eucharistic Ministers, surprised each EMHC with a gift—the newly released parish hymnal, Rejoice: Anne-gelic Voices.

St Anne Media Team

CRI Mumbai Programme 

The formal inauguration of the Conference of Religious India (CRI) Mumbai for the years 2025-2028 was held on June 22, 2025 at Divine Child High School, Andheri East, Mumbai. The programme was anchored gracefully by Sr Meena Godad. The event commenced at 2:30 p.m. with a prayer, followed by a heartfelt tribute to the late Pope Francis, offered by Sr Mary Gracelet PDDM. 

The presidential address was delivered by Sr Rosaline Pereira FMA, President of CRI Mumbai. In her address, she introduced the new CRI Executive Team, and appealed for the collaboration of all religious in the upcoming CRI activities. 

Fr Sajith Cyriac, SSP, Secretary of CRI Mumbai, presented the working plan for the next three years. A major initiative proposed is the formation of local CRI units under 11 deaneries within the Archdiocese. He elaborated on the structure, functioning, expectations, and operational dynamics of these units, along with a few customised programmes envisioned by the Executive Team for specific groups. 

A special felicitation ceremony followed, honouring the outgoing Executive Committee members for their dedicated service: Sr Cyrilla, Sr Prathibha, Sr Noella, Sr Rosely, and Fr Joby. On behalf of CRI, Sr Sagayamary felicitated Sr Sheeba Paul, who holds the distinction of being the first religious Notary in the Bombay High Court. 

The assembly warmly welcomed Archbishop John Rodrigues. In his address, the Archbishop emphasised the vital role of religious in the local Church. Drawing from the Jubilee theme, he reflected on three key symbols: the Cross, the Pilgrimage, and the Sign of Hope. He encouraged unity and collaboration, quoting, "If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together."

The Archbishop released a new book titled Pope Leo XIV: A Shepherd for Our Times, authored by Fr Sajith Cyriac, Secretary of CRI. The first copies were presented to Sr Romana - Superior General of PSOL, Sr Meena - Provincial of FMA, Sr Rosaline, and the author himself. 

After a brief intermission, the Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Archbishop, along with a few concelebrants. In his homily, Archbishop John reflected on the importance of offering our limitations and inadequacies to the Lord, who can transform them into opportunities for abundance. The Eucharistic celebration was deeply meaningful, enhanced by the melodious choir, led by Sr Gracelet and team. 

The day concluded with a Vote of thanks proposed by Sr Sherly Joseph, FMM, followed by a group photograph with the Archbishop to commemorate the event. Approximately 300 religious attended the programme, which was marked by prayer, reflection, sharing and unity; indeed, a truly inspiring and successful gathering! 

Fr Sajith Cyriac, SSP

St Arnold Degree College

In a moment of grace and joy for the local Church, St Arnold Degree College, the first higher education institution established by the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in India, was officially blessed and inaugurated in Mumbai. The ceremony took place in the presence of Archbishop John Rodrigues, Archbishop of Bombay, whose prayerful presence underscored the Church's enduring commitment to education, mission, and service.

The inauguration was led by Fr Tomy Thomas, SVD, Provincial Superior of the India Mumbai Province, who welcomed the guests and presided over the blessing rite. The occasion was made more special by the attendance of all the SVD Provincials and Regional Superior from across the India subzone: Fr Ignatius Santuraja (India Hyderabad Province); Fr Maria Paulraj (India Central Province); Fr Anuranjan Bilung (India Eastern Province); Fr Jeevan Kennady (Regional Superior, India Guwahati Region).

Also present were numerous SVD priests, clergy from nearby parishes, religious sisters from neighbouring communities, lay collaborators, benefactors, and members of the lay partners of the SVD (DDW), all gathered in a spirit of thanksgiving and hope.

Located in a growing educational corridor of the city, St Arnold Degree College (Andheri East, Mumbai) aims to offer not only academic excellence, but a values-based education that integrates faith, reason, and service to society. The College stands as a living tribute to St Arnold Janssen, the SVD founder, whose vision for holistic mission included schools, science, and the sanctification of the world through learning.

This landmark event is a source of pride not only for the SVD congregation, but for the Archdiocese of Bombay, as it reaffirms the Church's role in shaping young minds for leadership rooted in Christ.

Fr Raja Reddy, SVD

"Mary's Crew, Young & True"

On the evening of Laity Sunday, the North Bombay Curia (Legion of Mary) hosted Youth Day 2025 with the vibrant theme: "MARY'S CREW, YOUNG AND TRUE" at Our Lady of Dolours Church, Wadala (East). Youth and Legionaries from across Mumbai came together for this empowering event.

The evening began at 6:30 p.m. with an engaging talk by Deacon Ivan Fernandes, who explored the topic, "How Can One Become a Member of Mary's Crew?" Highlighting Mary's Visitation to Elizabeth, he emphasised the importance of outreach and service over routine prayer gatherings. Addressing contemporary challenges, he spoke candidly about issues such as premarital sex and abortion, urging the youth to follow Mary's example of obedience and say "Yes" to God's call. He challenged them to ask: Are we as influenced by Mary as we are by the world?

He proposed practical ways for Legionaries to promote a culture of life—such as visiting ashrams, supporting pregnant women in the parish, and organising Pro-Life Marches within the deanery. He cited the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which affirms the sanctity of life from the moment of conception and strongly condemns abortion.

The evening continued with a series of fun and interactive games, including an Emoji Quiz, Catechism Riddle Guessing, and Spot Prizes, encouraging camaraderie among participants from different parishes.

A thought-provoking skit was presented by the youth of Our Lady of Victories, Mahim, titled "Digital Life v/s Real Life." The performance depicted how today's youth often seek validation through likes and comments on social media, sometimes losing their true identity in the process.

The event concluded with a powerful Praise & Worship session by the band Youth United for Christ (YU4C), Mumbai, which had the entire hall joyfully singing and dancing in worship.

Shaun Pascal Pereira

Monsoon Dhamaka at Alibag

On June 22, 2025, the parishioners of Mary of Nazareth Church, Alibag, gathered with joy and enthusiasm to celebrate their most awaited annual event, Monsoon Dhamaka: United in Love, Showered in Grace. The day began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration led by Fr Simon Rodrigues, followed by a delicious breakfast. Organised by the energetic youth of the parish, the event welcomed over 100 parishioners of all ages. The celebration opened with a vibrant rain-themed performance to the song "Tu Hi Tu… Yeshu Tu Hi Tu," reflecting the refreshing presence of Christ in our lives. Various fun-filled games and engaging activities were conducted, adding laughter and energy to the rainy day. The theme reminded everyone that just as rain nourishes the earth, God's love and grace nourish our hearts, and bring us together in unity. 

Br Joel Ivan D'Silva