Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Umru-Siddhpur updates

Solemn feast of Christ the King in Siddhpur parish

Christ the King feast began with Eucharistic procession in Siddhpur parish on 20^th November 2016. As the procession reached the Church Deacon Dominic Savio administered the Benediction to all. During the Solemn Eucharist presided over by Fr. Xavier James, Deacon Dominic Savio preached on the Kingship of Jesus. It was indeed a joyful celebration with receiving Advent cum Christmas friend for whom each one will pray during forth coming advent. (22/11/2016)   

Felicitation of Fr. Kingslin in Siddhpur parish

On the First Sunday of Advent 27th November 2016, Fr. Kingslin presided over his first mass in Siddhpur parish. Frs, Prabu and Xavier concelebrated while Deacon Dominic Savio assisted the Eucharist. In his homily Fr. Kingslin suggested all present to open 'Jesus Account' which will illustrate the good work one will do everyday. After the mass he was felicitated by Mr. Shaji. Then Advent wreath ceremony took place where in all sang carols while Naveen, Priya, Samlin and Savion lighted the first Advent candle. Thus all were glad to prepare themselves for Christmas. (Xavier James)

Renewal of marriage vows in Siddhpur parish

18^th December 2016 was a special day for the families in Siddhpur parish. Six couples came with special costumes in order to renew their marital vows for better Christmas celebration. After the homily each couple came before the priest and in front of the homely congregation to renew their vows and bless and wear their wedding rings in a solemn manner. Thereafter they honoured each other with useful towels. Each family was given a copy of ‘Amoris Laetitia’ The Joy of Love, the papal document on Family. Fr. Xavier James explained the document prior to that. After the Eucharist and lighting of advent wreath all joined and cut cake and fed each other. Thus it was a joyous occasion for each domestic church in Siddhpur parish. (18/12/2016)

Christmas celebrations in Siddhpur parish

On 20^th December 2016, A group of Siddhpur parishioners with carols and Santa went around Siddhpur town singing and giving sweets at the homes of Catholics, Protestants and Hindus and giving the message of the birth of our Lord Jesus. It was a joy that all the families were involved in it and huge children band gathered each home. On 24^th at 11 pm, people gathered for confessions and to begin the midnight mass of the Nativity of our Lord. Along with the Catholic faithful few Protestant and Hindu brothers and sisters had gathered for the Eucharist. At the beginning of the mass all participated in lighting of the lamp and during the offertory all brought forth lighted candles and said a short prayer and left them before the altar. Fr. Xavier James had explained Significance of Christmas to them. After the mass, all gathered for cake and coffee. The Hindus expressed that for the first time they have taken part in the Eucharist and they were so glad to be part of it.

On 25^th noon all the parishioners and well wishers had gathered for a festive lunch and games for the children and couples. The parish honoured the well wishers and the Post Master of the village. At 3 pm, parents of St. Xavier’s School along with their kids gathered for the Christmas celebration. Many people and children from Umru village had gathered for the same. After Carols singing and Christmas message, the Santa gave sweets and gifts for everyone. Thereafter each one was given refreshments and they all left with joyful memory. Christmas mood and look was brought by the decoration, illumination, Christmas Stars, Crib and tree which were prepared by the parishioners along with brothers Packiaraj and Stephen who came to the parish for their Christmas ministry. (26/12/2016)

Silver Jubilee of Joy Thomas & Mary Joy

On 9^th July 2017, Joy Thomas & Mary Joy celebrated their 25 years of married life together at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Umru-Siddhpur. This year the parish concentrates on family life and so it is an added reason to celebrate the silver jubilee of the marriage of Joy sir and Mary chechi who are very dear to all the parishioners of Siddhpur. They are very simple, humble, prayerful, service minded and God fearing couple. They have brought many people to Christ by their life witness. They have been helping and praying for this new parish from the very beginning. It was indeed a joy to celebrate this grand day with concelebrated Holy Eucharist followed by felicitation and festive lunch. May God bless each and every family of our Archdiocese. Thank you dear families it is because of your inspiration we are joyful priests. (09/07/2017)

Bible Sunday in Siddhpur parish

Gandhinagar Archdiocesan Bible Sunday was celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Umru-Siddhpur on 20^th August 2017. The Sacred Scripture, the Bible was exposed and venerated in front of the Altar. After the usual Eucharistic Adoration & Holy Eucharist, all the families came prepared to participate in the Gospel Quiz competition held from Gospel according to St. Mark. All the parishioners participated with much enthusiasm. At the end, every family was given a copy of New Testament as a prize for their preparation and participation. May the Lord help all to have passion for reading, reflecting and imbibing the Word of God. (Xavier James)