Cardinal Gracias: Cathedral of Our Lady of Milagris to stand as Beacon of Hope and Gospel Values

Archbishop Emeritus of Bombay, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, described the newly dedicated Cathedral of Our Lady of Milagris as a "beacon of hope, love, light and Gospel values" during a felicitation programme held after the Eucharistic celebration of its dedication on May 9.

The solemn dedication ceremony of the Cathedral of the Diocese of Sindhudurg was presided over by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, while Cardinal Gracias inaugurated the Cathedral. Several bishops and priests concelebrated at the Eucharistic celebration.

Reflecting on the dedication rites, Cardinal Gracias highlighted the spiritual significance of the ceremony, including the blessing of the altar, the use of incense and light, and the homily. He described the Cathedral as the "mother church" of the Diocese of Sindhudurg, from which other churches in the diocese would draw inspiration and unity.

The Cardinal said Bishop Agnelo Pinheiro would gather the faithful around Jesus Christ, whose presence would be experienced through the Eucharist and Sacraments celebrated in the Cathedral, including Baptism, marriage and funerals.

"Every church is the presence of Christ," said Cardinal Gracias, adding that the Cathedral would strengthen faith, console the sorrowful, encourage the lonely, inspire young people in their vocation, and welcome the poor with dignity. He said the architectural beauty of the Cathedral would remind the people of Sawantwadi of God's presence and Gospel values within the Christian community.

Cardinal Gracias congratulated Bishop Alwyn Barreto for his years of dedication, fundraising and supervision that led to the completion of the Cathedral project. He noted that Bishop Alwyn had handed over a precious gift to his successor.

In a symbolic comparison, the Cardinal described Bishop Alwyn as the architect who built the Cathedral structure, while Bishop Agnelo would now build "a cathedral of living stones" — a faith-filled community rooted in apostolic values, love and hope.

Concluding his address, Cardinal Gracias prayed for God's blessings upon the Diocese of Sindhudurg, its people and the Church in India, describing the occasion as historic and grace-filled.

CATHOLIC CONNECT

Appreciation Day: Grateful Hearts, United Hands

Gratitude lies at the heart of every thriving community, and this spirit was beautifully reflected at St Sebastian Church, Marouli, Chembur, on April 20, 2026, when the Parish Team organised a special gathering as a heartfelt tribute to the church's leadership. The event was held to honour and appreciate the individuals who have dedicated their time, talent, and energy towards the spiritual and communal growth of the parish. It also served as an occasion to recognise their invaluable contributions and welcome a new chapter of leadership within the parish community.

The gathering brought together former and newly elected representatives of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), SCC coordinators, heads and assistant heads of various Cells and Associations, church staff, and numerous parishioners who contribute to the life and mission of the Church in diverse ways. The occasion celebrated a legacy of committed service while ushering in renewed leadership for the future.

The programme commenced with a warm address by the Parish Priest, Fr Baptist Viegas, who welcomed the attendees, and introduced the guest speaker, Fr Ryan Alex, for an inspiring session on Leadership. Fr Ryan delivered an engaging and relatable talk, using practical examples to highlight the essential qualities of effective leadership. He thoughtfully distinguished between being a genuine leader and merely being a "boss," emphasising the importance of humility, service, and responsibility. His presentation, delivered with simplicity and warmth, resonated deeply with the audience, and offered valuable insights into meaningful leadership.

Following the enlightening session, the atmosphere transformed into one of enthusiasm and joy as the parish youth conducted an entertaining segment for the gathering. Participants were divided into groups for a lively Balloon Relay competition, which sparked excitement and friendly rivalry among attendees. The energy continued with the classic game "Bombing the City," as music and laughter filled the hall, creating moments of fellowship and celebration.

As the programme drew to a close, Fr Baptist felicitated the winners of the games and delivered a heartfelt Vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to everyone who had contributed to the success of the event. The spirit of gratitude was further strengthened through the distribution of 'Thank you' cards, allowing the members to share personal notes of appreciation with one another. A commemorative group photograph of the outgoing PPC members captured a memorable moment of unity and service. The evening concluded with grace offered by Fr Robin, followed by a fellowship meal shared by all present.

More than simply sharing lessons on leadership, the gathering left participants with a lasting sense of belonging and appreciation — a reminder that they are part of a community that truly values and celebrates its people.

Helstina Stanley Rose

Impact of TOT at LTC

There are learning experiences that add knowledge — and then there are those that quietly rewire the way you think, speak, and see yourself. The Training of Trainers programme was, without question, the latter.

I walked into the first session with quiet confidence — years of corporate presenting behind me, comfortable in front of a room. What I did not realise was that holding a room and truly training people are two very different things. Nine months later, I understand that difference deeply.

Why I Said Yes to TOT - The Training of Trainers (TOT) programme, run under the aegis of the Archdiocese of Bombay's Laity Training Centre (LTC), caught my attention for one simple reason: structure. It brought together corporate professionals, parish leaders, teachers, and community animators — all united by one desire: to move beyond presenting and learn to genuinely train, facilitate, and connect. That diversification itself became one of the programme's greatest lessons: the principles of great training — structure, empathy, clarity, engagement — are universal, whether you are in a boardroom or a church hall.

The Sessions That Shifted My Thinking - The sessions on Training Needs Analysis, Training Evaluation, Training Objectives, Training Design and Training Methodologies shifted my thinking from what I want to deliver to what my audience actually needs. Throughout the journey, our mentors — Thomas Lobo, Gavin Rego, Vanessa Essaki and Ronald Pereira — brought expertise, patience, and a genuine investment in each person's growth, creating an environment where real learning could happen. The Storytelling module reframed training as an experience, not just a delivery. Learning styles helped me assess my own style and realise that trainers must adapt their training to cater to different learning styles of the trainees. And back at work, I found myself structuring sessions differently, listening before designing, and choosing words with far greater intention and precision.

The feedback was not always comfortable. But the discomfort was always the point. TOT is a process of learning, unlearning, and relearning — and gradually, you stop performing in front of a room and start simply being present in it.

The Batch VII Certification on April 19, 2026, presided over by Bishop Stephen Fernandes in the distinguished presence of LTC Coordinator, Fr Patrick D'Mello, Fr Felix D'Souza, Fr Anthony Fernandes and Ms Clara D'Souza of Adhata Trust, marked the culmination of this process of re-discovery of our potential as trainers; 12 of us were commissioned through the sacred rite of laying on of hands at a meaningful prayer service in the presence of our family members. Bp Stephen Fernandes lauded the TOT initiative and expressed the hope that the LTC would would continue to become a crucible of learning and growth.

Is It for You?

If you're someone who trains, teaches, facilitates, leads meetings, preaches, or simply wants to communicate with more clarity and confidence, the answer is almost certainly yes. TOT will meet you where you are, and take you somewhere you didn't expect.

Nine months ago, I walked in knowing how to present. Today, I know how to connect. And that, I've come to understand, is the whole point.

Interested in joining the next TOT batch? Email: totltcmumbai@gmail.com 

Contact Vanessa – 98673 88065 | Gavin – 98192 68799

Rudolph Gigool (TOT Programme, Batch VII)

Empowering Women through Skills and Mental Health

Prafulta Centre for Psychological Wellness is proud to have sustained its community outreach initiative in Subhash Nagar Basti, Andheri East, for the past three years. What began as a challenging effort—entering the basti, building trust, and introducing the concept of mental health to a community unfamiliar with it—has gradually evolved into a meaningful and impactful programme.

With the support of the local Anganwadi worker, the initiative began by introducing a counsellor who conducted sessions for women and girls twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays. While the initial response was modest, it soon became evident that engagement needed a more tangible and inviting entry point.

To address this, we introduced skill-based activities such as macramé and crochet. A trained professional, who is also a psychotherapist, was brought in to teach these skills. This approach served as a bridge; women were drawn in by the opportunity to learn and earn, and as they engaged in the creative process, they began to open up about their personal experiences. These moments allowed the counsellor to gently weave in emotional support, reflection, and mental health awareness.

Over time, the programme expanded to include a social worker who conducts home visits, encouraging more women to participate and strengthening community connections.

On April 30, 2026, we celebrated an important milestone by certifying a group of women who successfully completed eight sessions of skill training. This certification serves not only as recognition of their learning, but also as a source of motivation and pride. The event brought together newly certified participants, alumni, and prospective members. It was marked by games, shared meals, and heartfelt conversations.

Most meaningful was the feedback from the women themselves. They spoke about their growing confidence, their ability to express themselves, step out of their homes, engage with others, and contribute financially. The integration of livelihood skills with mental health support has created a safe and empowering space—one where healing, learning, and community-building come together.

This journey continues to show that when opportunity, trust and support come together, women don't just participate; they transform their lives and their communities.

Shalu Mehrotra, BIS Mumbai

Update: SCC Drawing Contest

32 persons across four age groups submitted their drawings and paintings based on the theme 'A Synodal Journey - a New Pentecost'. It is interesting to see how each one has interpreted the theme in the context of Pentecost. The drawings and paintings have been uploaded on the Archdiocesan SCC website - mumbaiscc.in. You are welcome to "LIKE" the various drawings and paintings uploaded on the website.

Archdiocesan SCC Office