Mumbai Parish Hosts Thanksgiving Celebration Unit-ing Migrants and Small Christian Communities

Migrant parishioners and Small Christian Communities gathered at Our Lady of Salvation Church in Dadar West, Mumbai, for a Thanksgiving Day celebration on October 4. The event highlighted the parish’s commitment to cultural diversity, community, and care for creation. Organized by the Salvation Green Cell in collaboration with the Small Christian Communities (SCCs), the celebration took place in a densely populated neighborhood known for its long-standing Catholic presence.

The day began with an Eucharistic celebration at the Heritage Cross outside the church. Vegetables, fruits, fish, sweets, and stalks of paddy rice were arranged as offerings, symbolizing the abundance of creation and God’s blessings throughout the year. Parish priest Fr. Michael Pinto led the gathering in prayer and blessed the offerings, setting a tone of gratitude and reverence.

Representatives of the SCCs, dressed in traditional attire, carried the offerings in procession to the altar, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the parish. Members of the Migrants Group added a distinctive cultural dimension, with women in colorful coordinated saris carrying aarti thalis. Altar servers and priests followed, illustrating the diverse tapestry of the parish community.

Fr. Ashwin Castellino presided at the Eucharist and delivered a homily encouraging the faithful to recognize God’s presence in the blessings of everyday life. He urged the congregation to cultivate a spirit of gratitude. A special moment occurred when Fr. Ashwin sang the doxology in Marathi, followed by a traditional aarti led by members of the Migrants Group, blending faith with cultural expression.

After Mass, the celebration continued with fellowship and cultural interaction. Members of the Migrants Group danced to the lively rhythms of the mandar, a traditional drum, and were soon joined by priests and parishioners. The shared experience fostered unity and joy, embodying the spirit of community and mutual respect.

Fruits and sannas, steamed rice cakes popular along India’s western coast, were shared among those present as a gesture of friendship and fellowship. The event served as a reminder of the importance of coming together in gratitude, reflecting Micah 6:8, which calls for doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

Source: Read the original report