Today the Catholic church celebrates the feast day of Sts. Joachim and Ann, parents of Blessed Virgin Mary. The simple and humble parents gave birth to a maiden who too was simple but went on to become the Mother of the Savior and all of us. What they taught in her childhood was to believe and do the will of God the Father. Both of them lived their call as Christians in an Ordinary way but went on to become an extraordinary couple because of their walking with the Lord. Today they are a great examples for the married couples. 
On Occassion of the feast in many places it is celebrated as the Parents day either in the schools or on parish level in India. In Mumbai and Bassein, it is celebrated to thank and appreciate the parents by Children. The whole celebration is prepared by the Catechism Sunday school teachers and children. The Eucharist is special for the parents where the liturgy is prepared specially for the parents and the children come out with beautiful ways to express their love and gratitude towards their parents. It is a nice and emotional moment where the parents are told that they are loved, accepted and appreciated in public. In some parished the children during the Mass hand over a rose or a small gift to them.
After the Mass there is a cultural program which is prepared by the children. Various themes of parenting and parenthood are explored. It is marvelous to see the tiny tots and grown up children dancing and singing in glories and thanksgiving to their beloved parents. The whole parish community participates in it. Before the celebration at least one month in advance they get down to prepare the celebrations. May all the parents be blessed through the intercession of Sts. Joachim and Anna.
No comments:
Post a Comment