DEREBAIL CHURCH CELEBRATES THE LIFE OF THE ELDERLY

Derebail parish celebrated the day of the elderly and grandparents in a unique way over the weekend from 23rd to 25th July. On all Sunday obligation Masses commencing Saturday evening and Sunday morning, those who were above the age of 75 years were asked to occupy the front seats in the church. After the final blessings, the celebrant invoked a special prayer on all these elderly persons and then anointed them individually. Each person was then presented with a candle and a token gift in recognition for their selfless service to their family, their ward and the parish over the years. 105 elderly parishioners were present over these 5 Masses.

Those senior citizens who are sick and were unable to come to church were visited at their homes by the parish priests together with nuns from the convent, vice president and secretary of the Parish Council, the coordinator of the 21 commissions and the respective ward Gurkar, either on Sunday afternoon or Monday morning. During the home visit the priest blessed them, anointed them and administered the Holy Communion. A total of 96 sick and elderly parishioners were visited over these two days. A token of appreciation in recognition for their dedication to their families and the parish was presented to all.

The parish community gratefully acknowledges this kind initiative by the parish priests.

Report by: Gaulbert Pais
Pictures: Simon Pereira