BIS # 1008 DOMINIC SAVIO CELEBRATIONS AT ANDHERI

Leon Cruz sdb

ANDHERI, JULY 8, 2008: The community of St. Dominic Savio, Andheri was ablaze with festivity as they celebrated the feast of their patron. On July 7, the Provincial Fr. Michael Fernandes, presided over the Eucharistic Celebration in the school. After the solemn Mass the students organized a felicitation programme. Fr. Michael called on the students to achieve lofty goals in life without any selfish motives or unhealthy competition. On the feast day, July 6, the boarders had a solemn Eucharistic celebration in the morning, followed by lightening tournaments. In the afternoon there was a gathering of the Salesian Cooperators, Priests, Religious and Past Pupils. Fr. Ajoy Fernandes, Rector, welcomed all the guests, after which there was a short programmed organized in honour of St. Dominic Savio. The feast was a home coming for many of the past pupils of St. Dominic Savio Boys Home. Scores of them gathered in the campus to cherish their happy memories. A match was organized between the past pupils and boarders, and also between the staff and boarders. To crown the celebrations there was a Salesian get-together at dinner. The presence of renowned Salesians like Fr. Joaquim D’Souza, Fr. Tony D’Souza, Fr. Peter Gonsalves and Fr. Joe Mannath added to the solemnity of the occasion. The feast of St. Dominic Savio was not a one-day celebration but the culmination of nine days of novena, during which various activities were organized for the boys. They had the Dominic Savio quiz, drawing competition, sermonettes, Savio Nite etc. The boys and community of St. Dominic Savio are grateful to this little giant who continues to be a fascinating source of inspiration, reminding us to live our lives to the full.