‘Divine Echoes’ Devotional Concert Enthrals Faithful at Bendur
Mangaluru: Marking the ‘Year of Children’, the Commission for Catechetical Apostolate, in association with the children of St Sebastian Church, Bendur, organised a grand devotional concert titled ‘Divine Echoes’ at the parish’s Platinum Jubilee Hall. The event brought together children from Grade 1 to PUC, who showcased their faith and talents through devotional songs, dances, instrumental performances, mime and drama.
The programme commenced at 6 p.m. with a spectacular brass band performance by the parish children, led by Master J. R. Furtado of Bantwal. The procession was joined by the parish priests, catechism coordinators, teachers and religious sisters. Rev. Fr. Joel Montheiro, Assistant Parish Priest and event convenor, delivered the welcome address.
The preschoolers captivated the audience with a colourful presentation portraying biblical personalities, Marian apparitions and saints. Seventeen young participants enthusiastically took part in the character presentation, encouraged by their parents.
Children from Grades 1 to 4 presented a graceful dance to ‘Christ Be Our Light’, followed by a trilingual action song. The parish’s young instrumentalists then performed the hymn ‘In Moments Like This’, showcasing their musical talents on drums, ukulele, acoustic and bass guitars, violin and keyboard.
Students from Grades 5 to 7 presented the popular Kannada hymn ‘Jaya Koduva Devarige’, followed by the energetic devotional dance ‘Taali Bajayenge, Nachenge’. A mime depicting the story of Creation further captivated the audience, conveying a meaningful spiritual message through expressive movements.
A special felicitation ceremony honoured 12 talented children for their achievements. Eighteen altar servers were also recognised for their dedicated service and presented with mementos by the parish priests. Donor Ozwald Pais was present on the occasion.
Delivering the presidential address, parish vicar Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza appreciated the efforts of the event convenors, catechism teachers and volunteers. He encouraged parents to nurture devotional practices among children and integrate faith into their everyday lives. The parish priests delighted the gathering by singing the Konkani song ‘Bhurgi Nenthi, Khalthi Bholi’, which received enthusiastic applause.
The segment featuring students from Grades 8 to 10 included melodious renditions of ‘Somya Deva Ajapta’ and ‘Abide with Me’, accompanied by a graceful dance performance. An inspirational play depicting the relationship between a father and son conveyed a positive message to the audience. Members of the Young Christian Students (YCS) movement further enriched the spiritual atmosphere with an elegant dance to the devotional hymn ‘Aradhana Teri Aradhana’.
The event also acknowledged the contributions of parish pastoral council representatives, catechism teachers, choreographers, voice-over artists, technical teams, and numerous volunteers who worked behind the scenes to ensure the concert’s success. Special appreciation was extended to those involved in directing and recording the play, preparing the choreography, managing sound and lighting, and providing photography and videography services.
The concert was coordinated by the catechism team under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Joel Montheiro, with the dedicated support of teachers, parents, religious sisters, and parish volunteers.
Bendur Parish Catechism Coordinator Jasmine Sarita Vas proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the children, parents, sponsors, and everyone who contributed to the event. She also acknowledged the supporters of Mission Sunday. Rev. Fr. Arun Lobo led the grace before the meal.
The programme was compered by Viola Lenza D’Souza and Leanna Jean Crasta, with students also hosting individual segments.
The evening concluded on a joyful note with a sumptuous meal provided by Nishwyn Caterers, under the leadership of its young proprietor, Alistair D’Souza. Ice cream was generously donated by Alwyn Pinto and family of Aroma Caterers.
Report: Jasmine Sarita Vas, Catechism Coordinator, Bendur Parish