The Our Lady of Candelaria Chapel Youth inaugurated the new pastoral year 2026-27 with a meaningful and grace-filled Holy Eucharist on Sunday, 5th July 2026, on the inspiring theme “Abide in Me” (John 15:4). The Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. Ivan Rodrigues, O.P, along with the chaplain, Fr. Walter de Sa.
The celebration began with a symbolic procession activity in which each youth attached a leaf bearing their name onto a cross entwined with a grapevine. This beautiful gesture represented the commitment of each youth member to remain rooted in Christ, the Way, the True and the Life, and to grow in faith through the Church and the youth ministry. The activity served as a powerful reminder that, just as branches remain alive only when connected to the vine, so also our lives bear fruit only when we remain united with Christ.
The Chapel youth participated in the Eucharist by carrying out the readings, prayers, offertory procession, and singing of hymns, thus making the Eucharistic celebration meaningful and participatory.
In his homily, Fr. Ivan reflected on the theme “Abide in Me” and encouraged the youth to remain firmly rooted in Christ through three important lifelines:
● The Eucharist – He reminded everyone that the Eucharist is the source of our spiritual strength, whereby Christ nourishes, renews and empowers us to face life’s challenges with faith and hope.
● Silence – He encouraged the youth to cultivate moments of silence and prayer amidst the noise of everyday life. In silence, we become attentive to God’s voice, find inner peace, and allow Him to guide our decisions and strengthen our relationship with Him.
● The Community – He emphasized the importance of growing together as a family in Christ. Being part of the chapel community, the youth are enabled to support one another, to serve together and deepen their faith through fellowship and shared experiences.
Through the Pledge, administered by the Chaplain, Fr. Walter de Sa, the youth renewed their commitment to Christ and the Church to witness to the Gospel values in this pastoral year.
Following the Holy Mass, refreshments were served to all present. The gathering then continued with an enriching Career Guidance Session conducted by Mrs. Alisha Coutto. She provided valuable inputs and guidance to the youth regarding career opportunities and personal growth. The programme concluded with joyful interactions, the making of reels to capture the memorable moments of the day, and finally a fellowship meal.
The Inaugural Mass marked a joyful beginning to the pastoral year, inspiring every youngster to remain deeply rooted in Christ, actively involved in the Church, and committed to bearing lasting fruits of faith, hope, and love.
Reported by Adriella Vaz
