News Letter Feb -March 2026
- Mar 30
- 6 min read
Ash Monday: The Commencement of Great Lent – February 15, 2026
On Sunday, February 15, 2026, our parish community reverently observed Ash Monday, marking the solemn beginning of the Great Lent season. This day served as a call to spiritual introspection, inviting all parishioners to embark on a forty-day journey of repentance, prayer, and renewal.
An Evening of Prayer and Preparation
The liturgical schedule was designed to transition the faithful into a season of penance and grace:
5:00 PM | Catechism: The evening began with instructional sessions, providing our students and families with a deeper understanding of the significance of the Lenten fast and the call to holiness.
5:30 PM | The Holy Rosary: The community united in contemplative prayer, seeking the intercession of the Blessed Mother as we enter this period of sacrifice.
6:00 PM | Holy Qurbana & Distribution of Ashes: The evening culminated in the celebration of the Holy Qurbana. During the liturgy, the imposition of ashes served as a profound outward sign of our inner commitment to "turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel."
Setting the Tone for a Meaningful Journey
Ash Monday is more than a tradition; it is an invitation to deepen our relationship with Christ through fasting, almsgiving, and increased devotion. As a parish family, we stand together at the threshold of this holy season, supporting one another in our shared mission of spiritual transformation.
"Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." — Joel 2:12
Catechism Parent-Teacher Conference – February 22, 2026
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, our parish hosted a Catechism Parent-Teacher Meeting immediately following the celebration of the Holy Qurbana. Held within the church premises, this gathering served as a vital forum for dialogue, collaboration, and shared commitment to the spiritual development of our youth.
Collaborative Faith Formation
The meeting provided a structured opportunity for parents and educators to align their efforts in nurturing the next generation of the faithful:
Constructive Dialogue: The session allowed for the transparent sharing of feedback and the addressing of academic or spiritual concerns, ensuring a supportive environment for every student.
Strategic Collaboration: Participants discussed upcoming catechism activities and initiatives, fostering a unified approach between the home and the classroom.
Supporting Our Children’s Spiritual Growth
At the heart of this meeting was our shared mission: to provide our children with a robust foundation in Christ’s teachings. By strengthening the partnership between parents and teachers, we ensure that our young parishioners receive the guidance and encouragement necessary for a lifelong journey of faith.
"Education is the primary work of the family, and the parish is the primary partner in that work." — Catechism of the Catholic Church
Way of the Cross – February 22, 2026 ✝️
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, the Way of the Cross was led by our Grade 11 and 12 Catechism students. Their prayerful leadership and profound devotion provided a deeply reflective atmosphere for the entire parish.
By guiding the congregation through the Stations of the Cross, these young leaders helped us meditate more deeply on the Passion of Christ, offering a powerful witness to the strength of faith in our youth during this Lenten season.
Mathruvedhi General Meeting – March 1, 2026 🙏
On the Third Sunday of Lent, March 1, 2026, our parish hosted the Mathruvedhi General Meeting. This gathering served as a vital opportunity for the women of our parish to convene, foster communal unity, and discuss upcoming initiatives that support the growth of our church family.
An Evening of Prayer and Governance
The meeting was integrated into a structured evening of spiritual devotion:
5:00 PM | Catechism: Continuing our commitment to the ongoing education of our youth.
5:30 PM | Way of the Cross: A communal walk through the Passion of our Lord.
6:00 PM | Holy Qurbana: The celebration of the Eucharist, followed by the formal Mathruvedhi General Meeting.
Strengthening the Parish Core
The Mathruvedhi remains a cornerstone of our community. This meeting emphasized their essential role in parish life, focusing on collaborative efforts to strengthen the domestic church and enhance our collective spiritual journey.
"Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come." — Proverbs 31:25
Knights of Columbus: "Keep Christ in Christmas" Poster Contest Winners
Recognition Ceremony – March 1, 2026
On Sunday, March 1, 2026, our parish took a moment to celebrate the artistic talents and spiritual reflections of our youth. Organized by the Knights of Columbus, the "Keep Christ in Christmas" poster contest invited students to illustrate the true meaning of the Nativity.
We are pleased to formally announce and congratulate the winners across the following age categories:
Category: Ages 5–7
The youngest members of our parish shared heartwarming and vibrant interpretations of the Holy Family.
First Place: Angelina Catherine Tomy
Second Place: Dominic Savio
Third Place: Michelle Anish
Honorable Mention: Issac Chacko
Category: Ages 8–10
These students demonstrated a wonderful blend of creativity and a growing understanding of the Christmas message.
First Place: Ruth Susan Majesh
Second Place: Johan Sebastian James
Third Place: Nigel John
Honorable Mention: Daniel Tom Jophin
Category: Ages 11–14
The oldest participants provided profound and detailed artistic expressions of faith and the presence of Christ in the modern world.
First Place: Jennifer Elsa Thomy
Second Place: Joel John
Third Place: Caitlyn Joby
Honorable Mention: Aveyah Jyxen
A Community Inspired by Art
We extend our deepest gratitude to all the participants for their dedication and to the Knights of Columbus for sponsoring this initiative. By focusing their talents on the birth of our Savior, these young parishioners have provided our entire community with a beautiful visual reminder of the hope and joy found in the Gospel.
"Creativity is a gift from God, and using it for His glory is a form of prayer."
International Women’s Day Celebration – March 8, 2026
On Sunday, March 8, 2026, during the Fourth Week of Lent, our parish community gathered with immense gratitude and joy to observe International Women’s Day. The evening was dedicated to honoring the profound influence and steadfast faith of the women who serve as the heart of our spiritual family.
An Evening of Devotion and Recognition
The celebration was seamlessly integrated into our Lenten liturgical observances, creating a space for both reflection and appreciation:
5:00 PM | Catechism: The evening began with our continued commitment to the religious education of our youth.
5:30 PM | Way of the Cross: A communal meditation on the Passion of our Lord, led with a spirit of shared sacrifice.
6:00 PM | Holy Qurbana & Special Presentation: The celebration reached its peak during the Holy Qurbana. As a formal gesture of appreciation, the women of the parish were presented with blessed Rosaries and candles—symbolizing their role as bearers of light and prayer within their homes and our community.
Honoring Invaluable Contributions
This heartfelt program served as a beautiful reminder of the invaluable contributions women make to the life of the Church. From leadership in the Mathruvedhi to their quiet strength in the domestic church, their dedication ensures the continued growth and vitality of our faith.
We extend our deepest thanks to all who helped organize this tribute and to the women of our parish for their tireless service and witness to the Gospel.
"A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." — Proverbs 31:30
Feast of St. Joseph – March 22, 2026
On Sunday, March 22, 2026, our parish community gathered with profound devotion to celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph, the Patron of the Universal Church. The day was marked by a spirit of reverence and communal prayer, honoring the life and guardianship of the foster father of Jesus.
A Day of Sacramental Preparation and Prayer
The liturgical schedule provided several opportunities for parishioners to engage in spiritual renewal during this Lenten season:
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Sacrament of Reconciliation: A dedicated period for Confession, allowing the faithful to prepare their hearts for the feast and the coming Paschal mysteries.
5:00 PM | Catechism: Our youth continued their journey of faith formation, reflecting on the virtues of St. Joseph.
5:30 PM | Way of the Cross: A solemn walk through the Passion of our Lord, uniting our sacrifices with those of Christ.
6:00 PM | Holy Qurbana & Solemn Observances: The celebration culminated in the Holy Qurbana, followed by the traditional Ladinj, a prayerful Procession, and the distribution of Nercha.
Community Fellowship and Appreciation
The success of this celebration was significantly enhanced by the dedicated support of our Knights of Columbus. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Knights for their sponsorship of the Nercha and their logistical support throughout the evening. Their commitment to the parish fosters a deep sense of unity and thanksgiving among all who attend.
As we look to the example of St. Joseph—a man of silence, strength, and obedience—we pray that his intercession continues to guide our families and our parish community.
"Go to Joseph; what he says to you, do." — Genesis 41:55
Holy Week Schedule – 2026The parish announced the Holy Week schedule for 2026, inviting all faithful to participate in these sacred celebrations:
March 29 – Palm Sunday: Blessing of palm leaves, procession, and Holy Qurbana
April 2 – Maundy Thursday (7:00 p.m.): Holy Qurbana, Washing of the Feet, and Vespera
April 3 – Good Friday (9:00 a.m.): Passion reading, veneration of the Cross (held outside the church), Holy Communion, and Nairchakkam
April 4 – Holy Saturday: Blessing of water and candles
April 4 – Easter Vigil (9:00 p.m.): Holy Qurbana
April 5 – Easter Sunday: Solemn Holy Qurbana
These celebrations offer a profound opportunity for the parish community to journey through Christ’s Passion, death, and resurrection in unity and faith.
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