140 Years Celebration at Makarpura-Baroda

140 YEARS OF LIFE OF THE INSTITUTE

“Hope for the World”. The Gujarat Region, 140th Anniversary elite celebration of the Foundation of our Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) found a niche in every heart in the campus of Auxilium-Baroda on 5th August 2012. The presence of 3 religious communities in Gujarat region brought together 450 youngsters, Members of the Educating Communities, Well Wishers, Benefactors, Parents, relatives and religious. The auspicious day commenced with a solemn thanksgiving Holy Eucharist con celebrated and led by Most Rev. Godfrey Rosario S.J Bishop of Baroda Diocese in procession with

dancing steps by Dakor girls to the Banqueting table. The festive liturgy and harmonious singing spread the fragrance of holiness all around. Bishop Godfrey Rosario in his well prepared sermon put across the message of the importance of Wisdom and Action practiced by Our Cofounders St. Mary Mazzarello. The works accomplished in the Gujarat region were acknowledged and appreciated. A meaningful reflection on the 140 th celebration - to move miles and miles, get back to our identity, recharge our batteries, animate our heart and communicate Jesus’ kingdom to generations were corresponded.

 The entire campus resonated with joy during the cultural programme. The releasing of 140 balloons marked the occasion in a very symbolic manner. The Animator of Baroda community Rev. Sr. Elizabeth Augustine warmly welcomed the audience of the day and the dignitaries were specially honored with floral tribute. An essence of 140 th Anniversary was delivered by Dakor Animator Sr. Rita Dora Thomas followed by opening chorus cum welcome by Dakor children. The professional dances by Auxilium Baroda depicted the

virtues and simple life style of St. Mary Mazzarello. A story of her short yet significant life was unfolded rendering the message of her loving kindness to the youth gone astray by Pansora girls.

 The presentation ‘A Dream Unfolds’ was viewed by all taking to heart the message of Mother Provincial Rev. Sr. Wilma D’souza and blessings to all the collaborators and recipients.

 The first booklet translated in Gujarati by Rev. Fr. Mayank Parmar SDB was released by Rev. Bishop Godfrey Rosario. Fr. Mayank while presenting his book unambiguously attributed the success to St. Mary Mazzarello. We express our gratitude to him in making known our foundress in a vernacular language to acquire holy vocations to our province. The History, Vocation and Mission of our Saint were beautifully displayed in the exhibition hall.

 The celebration culminated with delicious food for all the participants. Our hearts are filled with gratitude to God for the marvels he has worked through the instrumentality of our St. Mary Mazzarello. May the memories of the day vibrate with vigour and linger in the minds of everyone who were part of it.

- Report By

Sr. Rita Dora

Pushpanjali- Dakor