News Letter January 2025

Christmas Cake Fundraiser Sale

Sunday, December 1, 2024 - The Christmas Cake Fundraiser Sale began with the blessings of Rev. Fr. Jerlin Francis. Organized by Mathruvedi, this initiative was a testament to our parish’s spirit of community and tradition.

Under the skilled guidance of our parish priest, Mathruvedi sourced fresh, premium-quality cakes for the parishioners. The selection included the traditional plum cakes synonymous with Christmas, as well as other delightful varieties such as marble cakes, carrot cakes, and date cakes.

The response was truly heartwarming, with over 220 cakes sold through a combination of pre-orders and walk-in purchases. Parishioners expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to savour the authentic flavours of the season, while Mathruvedi celebrated the success of this fundraiser with immense joy and thankfulness.

Raffle Ticket Inauguration

Tuesday, December 3, 2024 – The St. John Paul Parish marked the joyous inauguration of the Raffle Ticket Sale, a significant part of our Christmas festivities. The event was led by Rev. Fr. Jerlin Francis, alongside our dedicated parish council members and trustees. Their collective efforts set the tone for a successful initiative, with all proceeds aimed at supporting our community activities and future programs.

The ceremony was a moment of unity and purpose, reflecting the spirit of giving that defines this holy season. Parishioners were excited to participate, eagerly purchasing tickets and contributing to this noble cause. The event also served as an opportunity for fellowship, as members of our parish came together to support this shared mission.

Priestly Ordination Day Celebration

Tuesday, December 3, 2024 – A day of double blessings for St. John Paul Parish as we celebrated the Priestly Ordination Day of our beloved parish priest, Rev. Fr. Jerlin Francis. The celebration began with a solemn Holy Mass, where parishioners gathered in prayer and thanksgiving for Father Jerlin’s dedicated service to the church and community.

After the Mass, a joyful cake-cutting ceremony was held, with trustees, parish council members, and parishioners sharing in the festivities. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, gratitude, and heartfelt appreciation for our priest, who has been a guiding light for our spiritual growth.

This special occasion strengthened our bond as a community, reminding us of the significance of priestly vocation and its impact on our faith journey.

Feast Celebration of the Immaculate Conception

December 9, 2024 – The Feast of the Immaculate Conception was celebrated with reverence and devotion. The day began with a special Mass, honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary and reflecting on her role in the salvation story.

Following the Mass, a Ladinj (traditional litany and hymn session) brought the community together in prayerful harmony. The melodious hymns and heartfelt prayers created a serene and sacred atmosphere, fostering a deeper connection with our faith.

This feast day reminded us of the purity and grace of Mary, inspiring us to seek her intercession and emulate her virtues in our daily lives.

Christmas 'O Holy Night' Celebration

Wednesday, December 25, 2024 - The highlight of our December celebrations was the Christmas 'O Holy Night' Celebration, which brought together students, families, and teachers for an unforgettable evening of joy and togetherness.

The event featured a variety of cultural programs, including heartfelt performances of Christmas carols, vibrant dances, and a beautifully enacted nativity play. Each performance reflected the dedication and talent of our students, who worked tirelessly to make the evening special.

A carol singing session led by our youth and students filled the air with festive cheer, as beloved hymns and Christmas songs echoed through the parish hall. The celebration fostered a deep sense of community and spiritual enrichment, reminding everyone of the true meaning of Christmas.

Throw Ball Competition by Knights of Columbus

December 26, 2024 – The Knights of Columbus hosted an exciting Throw Ball Competition, a lively event that brought together the youth, ladies, and gents of our parish in the spirit of sportsmanship and community bonding.

Held immediately after the Holy Qurbana, the competition was filled with energy, cheers, and enthusiastic participation. Teams showcased their skills, teamwork, and competitive spirit, making the event an unforgettable experience.

The Knights of Columbus deserve applause for organizing such a fun-filled activity that not only promoted physical fitness but also fostered camaraderie among parishioners. The free entry ensured inclusivity, allowing everyone to be a part of the joyous occasion.

New Year Mass and Year-End Prayers

The New Year Mass and Year-End Prayers brought our parish community together for a night of reflection, gratitude, and renewed hope as we bid farewell to 2024 and welcomed 2025.

The evening began with Holy Adoration at 9:30 PM, providing parishioners an opportunity to reflect on the blessings and challenges of the past year. This was followed by the Holy Qurbana at 10:00 PM, where heartfelt prayers were offered for a prosperous and faith-filled New Year.

As the clock approached midnight, parishioners gathered for a lively Countdown at 11:50 PM, marking the beginning of 2025 with cheers, prayers, and a deep sense of community spirit. The event was a beautiful reminder of God’s grace and guidance in our lives, inspiring us to step into the New Year with faith and optimism.

Knights of Columbus Crib and Outdoor Lighting Competition - Spreading Christmas Cheer Through Creativity and Light

The Knights of Columbus brought festive cheer to the parish with the Crib and Outdoor Lighting Competition, showcasing parishioners' artistic talents and Christmas spirit. Nirmal Baby won first place in the Crib Competition with a breathtaking nativity scene, followed by Sam Thomas and Dhanya James in second and third place. In the Outdoor Lighting Competition, Nithin Jose Paul claimed first place with a vibrant display, while Saneesh Tom and Jubin Mathew secured second and third. This annual event united families, fostered community spirit, and made the Christmas season truly special.

St. Mary’s Mission, Moose Jaw 

A day of spiritual renewal and community bonding unfolded during the St. Mary’s Mission in Moose Jaw, led by Rev. Fr. Jerlin Francis. The mission served as a time of reflection, prayer, and deepened faith, with parishioners gathering to participate in the enriching sessions. Fr. Jerlin’s inspiring sermons and spiritual guidance resonated deeply, encouraging attendees to strengthen their relationship with God and live out their faith in daily life. The mission was a testament to the unity and devotion of the parish community, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of purpose and hope.

 SMYM Syro Malabar Youth Movement Regina – A New Beginning

 The youth of Regina marked an exciting new chapter with the launch of the SMYM Syro Malabar Youth Movement, an initiative dedicated to fostering faith, unity, and service among the parish’s younger generation. Under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Fr. Jerlin Francis, Youth Director, the movement introduced its enthusiastic leadership team: James Saji Varghese as General Coordinator, Elroy Sam as Office Secretary, Antony as Parish Council Representative, Joseph Binu as Finance Coordinator, Ivin Biju as Social Media Coordinator, Chris Sony and Neal Maria as Assistant Social Media Coordinators, Lenitta Antony as Executive Member, Noelina Bestin as Spiritual Coordinator, and Alvina Antu as Assistant Spiritual Coordinator. Together, this team is committed to nurturing spiritual growth, leadership, and social engagement, laying the foundation for a vibrant and empowered youth community within the Syro Malabar parish of Regina.