Associations & Cells
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Counseling Cell: A Beacon of Hope and Support
Introduction:
The Counseling Cell of our parish is a confidential and non-judgmental space where individuals can share their struggles, concerns, and fears. Our mission is to provide emotional and spiritual support to parishioners, empowering them to navigate life’s challenges with faith, hope, and resilience.
Objectives:
– Offer a safe and empathetic listening space
– Provide guidance and support for mental health and wellness
– Foster spiritual growth and integration
– Facilitate connections to resources and services
Services:
– Individual and group counseling sessions
– Marriage and family therapy
– Grief support and bereavement counseling
– Referrals to professional services and resources
Christy Leitao
Head
Venora Lobo
Asst Head
ENGLISH CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP – MIRA ROAD
Lily of the Valley (LOV) prayer group, is the English Charismatic group of St. Joseph Church, Mira road which is active since the last 33 years. Our Prayer Meetings are held every Thursday at 7:30pm to 9:00pm in the Church to praise, glorify and worship our God and to grow in the Word of God which is shared by in-house and guest speakers. We have a strength of around 80-90 people in attendance. Our prayer group is also instrumental in conducting healing service, life in the spirit seminar and Lenten missions in consultation with our parish priest. This group consists of different Ministries – Praise & Worship, Preaching, Intercessory, Service, Music, Counseling and Visiting ministry.
Anushka Lobo
Head
9930403028
Mingueline Mascarenhas
Assistant Head
8097992575
JIVITACHI ZOR - KONKANI CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP - MIRA ROAD
Jivitachi Zor, Konkani Charismatic Prayer Group, Mira Road, was formed in the month of May 1992. Seven members came together and formed the Konkani Charismatic Prayer Group, Jivitachi Zor. Bro Alwyn Quardras was the first leader of the group. There was constant intercession going on for the growth of the group. God was adding new and active members to the group. All the Parish priests and the spiritual directors of our parish encouraged our members to conduct various programmes, retreats, outreach and seminars. This increased the active participation of members. Nowadays there are intercessory group, service team, choir team and core team. On every Monday we meet to intercede and Tuesdays we meet for the choir and on Wednesdays we have our prayer meeting in the church after 6.30 pm mass. It is our humble request to all Konkani speaking people to come for the prayer meeting and be blessed. If you have any petitions, please inform us or call the core team members and will intercede for the same.
The names of the core team members and their contact numbers.
Leader
Mr. Hilary Sequeira
9769062332
Asst. Leader
Mr. Joseph Dmello
7021036540
Core Members
Mr. Hilary Dmello
9869718162
Mrs. Matelina D’souza
9224293366
Mr. Bona Dmello
9136718770
Mrs. Perpet Fernandes
7738784490
Mrs. Carmelina Franco
9167192015
Mrs. Felcy Mendonca
9967285836
HINDI CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP - MIRA ROAD
In 2005, the Hindi Charismatic Prayer Group was established. Our then leader was late Br. Rajan Fernandez. He founded the ‘KARUNA MINISTRIES’ Hindi Charismatic Prayer Group in our parish. We established the Intercession Ministry, Teaching Ministry, Service Ministry, Choir Ministry, Lector team, and Praise & Worship team inside the prayer group.
Every Monday at 6.30 p.m., Hindi Mass and Hindi Prayer service are held. The prayer service is also attended by people of other faiths.
We have our fellowship meeting and intercession every Wednesday evening after the 6.30 p.m. Mass. We also hold counselling and healing sessions in addition to our choir practice for the first Friday Hindi Marathi Retreat.
In 2010, our parish hosted a 3 day VIII National Charismatic Convention. God provided opportunities for us after the Convention, and our leader was motivated to host the First Friday Hindi Marathi retreat in our parish on the first Friday of each month from 9.30 am to 4 pm. This retreat is attended by people from all parts of Mumbai and from various religious backgrounds.
Our Parish holds RCIA sessions in Hindi every Saturday, and members of Karuna Ministries have been asked by the parish to teach the candidates who wish to learn more about Jesus.
For the benefit of our Ministry members, we arrange leadership development programme so that they will be devoted to the tasks assigned to them.
Below are the names and phone numbers of the members of our core group:
Leader
Mrs. Alphonsa Fernandez
9967630022
Asst. Leader
Mrs. Carmeline Ferrao
9867166069
Core Members
Mrs. Elvina D’costa
9869718162
Mrs. Luiza Coelho
9167094609
Mr. David Dande
9930363917
Mr. Norbert Coutinho
9769297356
Mrs. Philomena D’souza
9920689289
CHOIR
History of the Association: One of the oldest associations, started to help lead the congregation in prayers enabling them to feel God through music and lyrics.
Last Year’s Activity:
a) Conducted singing vocal exercises .
b) Focussed on being more diverse in music by integrating different styles like Gregorian, Blues, Jazz, Rock and Pop etc.
c) Also, made the choir learn carols in different languages like Latin and Wendat or Huron language.
d) Arranged the list of all Glorias in an orderly manner.
e) Compiled a list of all Lenten Gospel Acclamations to ensure uniformity
f) Ensured that new members joining the parish choir are seamlessly integrated into existing groups.
Tentative program for the current year
a) Focussed on teaching new carols
b) Focussed on creating new tunes and reinventing old hymns/mass parts into different styles
c) Focussed on conducting singing workshops
d) Organizing choir get together
e) Organizing the list of all mass parts
Shawn Cardoz
Leader
96192 07385
Rickson Castelino
Assistant Leader
98672 91626
Prescilla Aranha
Assistant Leader
81088 69545
MIRA ROAD GOAN ASSOCIATION
Mira Road Goan Association also known as MRGA, is a group of Goan Residents of Mira Road East a City situated in the Western Suburbs of Mumbai, which comes under Thane District, Maharashtra, India. This group was initiated, founded by Late Mr. Johnson D’souza along with few close friends and relatives for a purpose ‘Goans of Mira Road to stick together’ since 2011.
The group was finally formed in 2013 and a year after Mr. Johnson D’souza passed away in 2014. His close friends and relatives decided to continue his legacy to fulfill his desire to bring the Goans of Mira Road together.
In 2015 the Group was legally registered as an Association. MRGA has been Hosting a lot of Fun filled Events like Konkani Tiatrs, Get-togethers and Picnics right from 2013 till date and one of the most popular is Xavier’s Nite. The Feast of the Goans Patron St. Francis Xavier. MRGA will continue to Host more and more Events with the help and support for the Mira Road Goans.
Contact:
Head: Arnold D’souza – 9324180904
Trevor D'souza
President
98205 07090
Arnold D'souza
Secretary
9324180904
Dr. Anthony Rodrigues
Treasurer
96192 05226
St. Elizabeth of the Trinity, Mira Road
St. Elizabeth of the Trinity OCDS community was established in 2014 by the then Spiritual Assistant, Fr. Lancy Mendonca (OCD). Since then, our members meet fortnightly for one and a half hours on Thursdays at 7:15 pm. Some of our members pray the Morning Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours along with the priests. Others are committed to praying the Morning and Evening Prayer as well as Night Prayer, if possible, along with 30 minutes of mental prayer, at their respective homes. We follow the Rule of St. Albert, the OCDS Constitutions, and the Provincial Statutes, which are used to help us transform into the people that God intends us to be. We strive to develop our spiritual life by fostering a life of prayer. Most of us have been attending the daily Mass and practicing devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. She is our model of contemplative life. We emulate her in mental prayer and practice of the presence of God. We have been actively participating in the Community as well as personal Apostolate; attending one retreat per year and participating in the days of Recollection.
Spiritual Director – Fr. Regan Paul D’souza
Jubilee Cardozo
President
9819503270
Anita Shiny
First Councillor
98201 50096
Director of Formation – Diana Wilson
Second Councillor – Noreen D’souza
Third Councillor – Thomas Noronha
St. Joseph OCDS Community
President
Lavina – 9930948127
Head
Rosy –
9820172005
Aim: The Aim of a lector is to be instrumental in communicating the Word of God to the faithful present in the church during the Mass.
Objectives: The objective of the Lector Ministry is to proclaim the scripture readings and be a voice to God’s Living Word. The Ministry calls upon to undertake the solemn duty, responsibly and channel the message of God with Clarity and Conviction to the assembly.
Planner : Based on the number of lectors active for a particular mass the reading is allotted to a lector once every month based on the schedule rotations. St. Joseph Parish, Mira Road is proud to have 130 dedicated lectors.
Benefits: Being a lector is a very rewarding experience as it helps an individual to grow in confidence.
Having the chance to stand behind the microphone and in front of a congregation challenges to project oneself audibly, thus providing tremendous practice for public speaking. Furthermore, you can come to grow closer with the Lord and deepen your faith as a lector by preparing for the readings before the mass and sharing the Holy Word with the congregation during the liturgy. A lector seizes the wonderful opportunity to learn, live and appreciate the sacred scripture during the training and preparations offered by the ministry.
Contact :
Head: Janet Veigas – 88797 75671
Asst. Head: Sharon Sequeira – 83698 29773
Janet Veigas
Head
8879775671
Sharon Sequeira
Asst. Head
PARISH BIBLE CELL
The Parish Bible Cell started in the year 2005. It was initiated by Fr. Rudolf and Father Alvito A Two Year Bible study of the Old and New Testament, every first, third and fifth Sunday of the month.
Teacher,s who have done the Ministry of the Word and our Parish Fathers take classes. Our Spiritual Director for Bible Cell is Fr. Nelson Cardozo.
Every year we have around twenty-five students joining us. At present we have 60 students. At the end of completing two years, they are given certificates. They share their experiences and testimonies, what the two years have done in their lives and how they are spiritually motivated to go to be witnesses of God’s love.
A taste of the Word of God wherein they experience the Love of God in Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life. The students are spirit filled, their prayer life grows, they experience the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, knowing that he is the living God.
Bible Sunday is celebrated with the Eucharist, animated by Bible cell members. After the Eucharist Bible Cell members stand outside the church with a box of bible verses and chocolates, all those who answer get a chocolate. We see the joy in people,s faces. This day is followed by a celebration of all past and present students. A lovely fellowship.
Our students feel that they are chosen by God to be here and this time well spent in understanding the Word of God.
In the words of St. Augustine….
To search for God is a challenging human adventure, to find God is the noblest human achievement, to fall in love with God is life’s highest fulfilment.
Leader
Mrs. Fay Mckinley
9833283792
Asst. Leader
Mrs. Wilma Rose
9920167560
Asst. Leader
Mr. Daniel
8779026019
Prison Ministry is a dedicated voluntary service focused on the renewal and rehabilitation of Prisoners. Our mission is to provide individuals with a renewed chance to build a better life upon their release.
Each week, our volunteers visit prisons and observation homes in Dongri, Byculla, Thane, and Arthur Road. We conduct a variety of regular classes aimed at empowering the inmates and children, including academic subjects, beautification, etiquette, sports, computer skills, music, arts and crafts, and culinary training.
These programs are designed to equip them with essential skills for reintegration into society. Additionally, we organize health camps offering dental, hearing, and gynaecological services to address the medical needs of the children. We also celebrate significant occasions such as Diwali and Christmas, bringing joy and a sense of normalcy to their lives.
Through these initiatives, we strive to reform Prisoners and provide them with the tools for a brighter and more promising future.
Edna Lobo
President
7045391479
Arnold Mathias
Secretary
99871 88481
Trevor D’souza
Treasurer
98205 07090
To assist priests during liturgical celebrations by way of managing congregation movement, seating arrangements, facilitating distribution of communion by Eucharistic Ministers.
Chrisneil D’souza
Head
9773468804
Remson Fernandes
Asst Head
8108056216
Objectives/tasks:
The St. Vincent de Paul Society is a lay Catholic organisation that aspires to live the gospel message by serving Christ in the poor with love, respect, justice, hope and joy, and by working to shape a more just and compassionate society.
Contact:
Head: Shalet Fernandes – 98191 44391
Asst. Head: Benedicta Simon – 8424846837
Official website: https://ssvpindia.org
Shalet Maxie Fernandes
President
Benedicta Simon
Vice-President
Cynthia Mathias
Secretary
Joseph D'souza
Treasurer
St Joseph’s – Sunday School (SS) 2024-2025
Objective: The team at Sunday school works towards the faith formation of young children and teenagers. This involves exposing them to lessons at sunday classes based on the Bible and various teachings of the Catholic church.
The activities at SS aspire to help nurture christian values and their love & service towards God, others and self.
Aiming to make them aware of their mission in Christ Jesus.
Vanessa D’souza
Head
SS & Secondary School Co-ordinator
Jovita Barboza
Head
SS Primary Co-ordinator
Preeti Fernandes
Asst. Head
SS Primary Coordinator
Helen Fallero
Asst. Head
SS Secondary Coordinator
Jerald D’souza
Head
Confirmation Coordinator
Sabina Correa
Asst. Head
Confirmation & Deanery Coordinator
Various activities planned at Sunday school this year 2024-2025
For the teachers: Training and Recollections for Catechists:
1) Recollections at a Deanery level in coordination with the DCC team. We have finished one on “Prayer” by Rev Fr Regan D’souza on 7th July, 2024.
2) Training for new and current Catechists by Mr. Avil Noronha on how to conduct the class & lesson on 23rd June 2024
3) FHC & confirmation Catechists attended a training on “How to make disciples” on 14th July,2024 at St Michael’s Church, Mahim.
4) Teachers day celebration & teachers picnic.
5) Teachers evaluation meeting to understand the working of the group with feedback to improve.
6) Bible quiz on the Gospel of John.
7) Other activities are under discussions.
For the children:
1) Bible quiz: We will be beginning with the Bible quiz on the Gospel of John, in Aug 2024 for Std 4th to Confirmation.
2) Faith Celebration day (FCD) for 5-6th, 7-8th & 9th.
3) Parents day celebration on 28th July 2024. SS children have put up various performances guided by their teachers & older SS students who have volunteered to help train the children.
4) Nativity novenas for SS students.
5) Christmas day celebration for SS students.
6) Way of the cross to be conducted by SS children on Thursdays and Special WoTC to be conducted before the SS mass.
7 ) Common AV session by SS teacher’s and guest speakers.
8) SS quiz Final quiz conducted with winners being felicitated at the closing mass.
9) Confirmation students one-day retreat on 7th July, 2024, conducted by YU4C.
10) Other activities are under discussion
For the parents:
1) Parenting session for FHC parent conducted by a guest speaker.
2) FHC and Confo PTA to understand the expectations from the team.
3) Other activities are under discussion.
FRATERNITY OF MALAYALEE CATHOLICS
St. Joseph Church Mira Road (Mira-Bhayander Unit)
In 2023, The Fraternity of Malayalee Catholics held several key events, starting with their Annual General Body Meeting on September 3, at Little Flower Hall, followed by a fellowship meal. Regular monthly activities included committee meetings every first Saturday and prayer gatherings every third Saturday. The community organized a Malayalam mass every first Sunday at 9 AM at Little Flower Hall. Significant events included Malayalam services at Uttan Church on September 6th and at Mount Mary Church on September 16th, 2023, the All Souls Day mass at Shalini Bhavan in Sion after the 2nd November on first Sunday, Good Friday the Way of the Cross will be observed at St. Joseph Church and in members’ homes on Fridays during Lent at 8 pm .Additional notable events were the Central AGM at Shalini Bhavan on November 27, the 32nd Annual Day Celebration at St. Xaviour’s Church, Bhandup on January 29, and a Bible Convention on March 25-26 at Shalini Bhavan, Sion.
For 2024, The association has planned a series of recurring and special events. The Annual General Body Meeting is scheduled for August 4, at Little Flower Hall, followed by a fellowship meal. Monthly committee meetings and prayer gatherings will continue as before. The Malayalam mass will remain a fixture on the first Sunday of each month at at Little Flower Hall. Key events include Malayalam services at Uttan Church on September 7th and Mount Mary Church on Friday 13th September at 11.30 am, and the All Souls Day mass at Shalini Bhavan in Sion after the 2nd November on first Sunday. Good Friday the Way of the Cross will be observed at St. Joseph Church and in members’ homes on Fridays during Lent at 8 pm. Other major events are the Central AGM on September 22, the 33rd Annual Day Celebration at St. Xaviour’s Church, Bhandup on January 28, and a three-day retreat during the Lent season in March at Shalini Bhavan, Sion.
Contact:
Head: K Mathan Kunjumon – 9819985638
K Mathan Kunjumon
President
9819985638
Dory Dcruz
Secretary
9920385686
Rani Paul
Treasurer
9920729801
WOMEN’S CELL
(St. Joseph’s Church, Mira Road East)
Aim: To impart knowledge, create opportunities, enable people to realize their potential for a life of equality, empowerment, personal enhancement and professional success.
Vision: To envision a society where women and girls are valued and respected as equally created in the image of God, able to enjoy their rights, participate in decision making processes with women’s perceptive as equal partners in the family, church and society.
Objectives:
– The cell conducts various awareness programs on health, legal, defence techniques, etc to spread social awareness.
– To empower people in raising their voice against gender discrimination, injustice, violence, to encourage good family values to raise happy and united families.
– To identify and promote strong leadership, growth of individuals, develop self-confidence and obtain support from relevant people/groups.
– Marriage Bureau aims at uniting people in holy matrimony
Contact:
Head: Lucy Lobo – 97692 42813
Asst. Head: Debbie Zuzarte – 77387 53005
Lucy Lobo
Head
9769242813
Debbie Zuzarte
Asst. Head
7738753005
Leonora D’souza
Treasurer
9930102218
Planner for 2024-25:
Girl Child Day – September’24
Health Session for females – September’24
Session on Violence Free Families – November’24
Marriage Bureau event – Single’s Meet – January’25
Women’s Day – March’25
Click on heading to view information
Counseling Cell: A Beacon of Hope and Support
Introduction:
The Counseling Cell of our parish is a confidential and non-judgmental space where individuals can share their struggles, concerns, and fears. Our mission is to provide emotional and spiritual support to parishioners, empowering them to navigate life’s challenges with faith, hope, and resilience.
Objectives:
– Offer a safe and empathetic listening space
– Provide guidance and support for mental health and wellness
– Foster spiritual growth and integration
– Facilitate connections to resources and services
Services:
– Individual and group counseling sessions
– Marriage and family therapy
– Grief support and bereavement counseling
– Referrals to professional services and resources
Christy Leitao
Head
Venora Lobo
Asst Head
ENGLISH CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP – MIRA ROAD
Lily of the Valley (LOV) prayer group, is the English Charismatic group of St. Joseph Church, Mira road which is active since the last 33 years. Our Prayer Meetings are held every Thursday at 7:30pm to 9:00pm in the Church to praise, glorify and worship our God and to grow in the Word of God which is shared by in-house and guest speakers. We have a strength of around 80-90 people in attendance. Our prayer group is also instrumental in conducting healing service, life in the spirit seminar and Lenten missions in consultation with our parish priest. This group consists of different Ministries – Praise & Worship, Preaching, Intercessory, Service, Music, Counseling and Visiting ministry.
Anushka Lobo
Head
9930403028
Mingueline Mascarenhas
Assistant Head
8097992575
JIVITACHI ZOR - KONKANI CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP - MIRA ROAD
Jivitachi Zor, Konkani Charismatic Prayer Group, Mira Road, was formed in the month of May 1992. Seven members came together and formed the Konkani Charismatic Prayer Group, Jivitachi Zor. Bro Alwyn Quardras was the first leader of the group. There was constant intercession going on for the growth of the group. God was adding new and active members to the group. All the Parish priests and the spiritual directors of our parish encouraged our members to conduct various programmes, retreats, outreach and seminars. This increased the active participation of members. Nowadays there are intercessory group, service team, choir team and core team. On every Monday we meet to intercede and Tuesdays we meet for the choir and on Wednesdays we have our prayer meeting in the church after 6.30 pm mass. It is our humble request to all Konkani speaking people to come for the prayer meeting and be blessed. If you have any petitions, please inform us or call the core team members and will intercede for the same.
The names of the core team members and their contact numbers.
Leader
Mr. Hilary Sequeira
9769062332
Asst. Leader
Mr. Joseph Dmello
7021036540
Core Members
Mr. Hilary Dmello
9869718162
Mrs. Matelina D’souza
9224293366
Mr. Bona Dmello
9136718770
Mrs. Perpet Fernandes
7738784490
Mrs. Carmelina Franco
9167192015
Mrs. Felcy Mendonca
9967285836
HINDI CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP - MIRA ROAD
In 2005, the Hindi Charismatic Prayer Group was established. Our then leader was late Br. Rajan Fernandez. He founded the ‘KARUNA MINISTRIES’ Hindi Charismatic Prayer Group in our parish. We established the Intercession Ministry, Teaching Ministry, Service Ministry, Choir Ministry, Lector team, and Praise & Worship team inside the prayer group.
Every Monday at 6.30 p.m., Hindi Mass and Hindi Prayer service are held. The prayer service is also attended by people of other faiths.
We have our fellowship meeting and intercession every Wednesday evening after the 6.30 p.m. Mass. We also hold counselling and healing sessions in addition to our choir practice for the first Friday Hindi Marathi Retreat.
In 2010, our parish hosted a 3 day VIII National Charismatic Convention. God provided opportunities for us after the Convention, and our leader was motivated to host the First Friday Hindi Marathi retreat in our parish on the first Friday of each month from 9.30 am to 4 pm. This retreat is attended by people from all parts of Mumbai and from various religious backgrounds.
Our Parish holds RCIA sessions in Hindi every Saturday, and members of Karuna Ministries have been asked by the parish to teach the candidates who wish to learn more about Jesus.
For the benefit of our Ministry members, we arrange leadership development programme so that they will be devoted to the tasks assigned to them.
Below are the names and phone numbers of the members of our core group:
Leader
Mrs. Alphonsa Fernandez
9967630022
Asst. Leader
Mrs. Carmeline Ferrao
9867166069
Core Members
Mrs. Elvina D’costa
9869718162
Mrs. Luiza Coelho
9167094609
Mr. David Dande
9930363917
Mr. Norbert Coutinho
9769297356
Mrs. Philomena D’souza
9920689289
MIRA ROAD GOAN ASSOCIATION
Mira Road Goan Association also known as MRGA, is a group of Goan Residents of Mira Road East a City situated in the Western Suburbs of Mumbai, which comes under Thane District, Maharashtra, India. This group was initiated, founded by Late Mr. Johnson D’souza along with few close friends and relatives for a purpose ‘Goans of Mira Road to stick together’ since 2011.
The group was finally formed in 2013 and a year after Mr. Johnson D’souza passed away in 2014. His close friends and relatives decided to continue his legacy to fulfill his desire to bring the Goans of Mira Road together.
In 2015 the Group was legally registered as an Association. MRGA has been Hosting a lot of Fun filled Events like Konkani Tiatrs, Get-togethers and Picnics right from 2013 till date and one of the most popular is Xavier’s Nite. The Feast of the Goans Patron St. Francis Xavier. MRGA will continue to Host more and more Events with the help and support for the Mira Road Goans.
Contact:
Head: Arnold D’souza – 9324180904
Trevor D'souza
President
98205 07090
Arnold D'souza
Secretary
9324180904
Dr. Anthony Rodrigues
Treasurer
96192 05226
St. Elizabeth of the Trinity, Mira Road
St. Elizabeth of the Trinity OCDS community was established in 2014 by the then Spiritual Assistant, Fr. Lancy Mendonca (OCD). Since then, our members meet fortnightly for one and a half hours on Thursdays at 7:15 pm. Some of our members pray the Morning Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours along with the priests. Others are committed to praying the Morning and Evening Prayer as well as Night Prayer, if possible, along with 30 minutes of mental prayer, at their respective homes. We follow the Rule of St. Albert, the OCDS Constitutions, and the Provincial Statutes, which are used to help us transform into the people that God intends us to be. We strive to develop our spiritual life by fostering a life of prayer. Most of us have been attending the daily Mass and practicing devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. She is our model of contemplative life. We emulate her in mental prayer and practice of the presence of God. We have been actively participating in the Community as well as personal Apostolate; attending one retreat per year and participating in the days of Recollection.
Spiritual Director – Fr. Regan Paul D’souza
Jubilee Cardozo
President
9819503270
Anita Shiny
First Councillor
98201 50096
Director of Formation – Diana Wilson
Second Councillor – Noreen D’souza
Third Councillor – Thomas Noronha
St. Joseph OCDS Community
President
Lavina – 9930948127
Head
Rosy –
9820172005
Aim: The Aim of a lector is to be instrumental in communicating the Word of God to the faithful present in the church during the Mass.
Objectives: The objective of the Lector Ministry is to proclaim the scripture readings and be a voice to God’s Living Word. The Ministry calls upon to undertake the solemn duty, responsibly and channel the message of God with Clarity and Conviction to the assembly.
Planner : Based on the number of lectors active for a particular mass the reading is allotted to a lector once every month based on the schedule rotations. St. Joseph Parish, Mira Road is proud to have 130 dedicated lectors.
Benefits: Being a lector is a very rewarding experience as it helps an individual to grow in confidence.
Having the chance to stand behind the microphone and in front of a congregation challenges to project oneself audibly, thus providing tremendous practice for public speaking. Furthermore, you can come to grow closer with the Lord and deepen your faith as a lector by preparing for the readings before the mass and sharing the Holy Word with the congregation during the liturgy. A lector seizes the wonderful opportunity to learn, live and appreciate the sacred scripture during the training and preparations offered by the ministry.
Contact :
Head: Janet Veigas – 88797 75671
Asst. Head: Sharon Sequeira – 83698 29773
Janet Veigas
Head
8879775671
Sharon Sequeira
Asst. Head
PARISH BIBLE CELL
The Parish Bible Cell started in the year 2005. It was initiated by Fr. Rudolf and Father Alvito A Two Year Bible study of the Old and New Testament, every first, third and fifth Sunday of the month.
Teacher,s who have done the Ministry of the Word and our Parish Fathers take classes. Our Spiritual Director for Bible Cell is Fr. Nelson Cardozo.
Every year we have around twenty-five students joining us. At present we have 60 students. At the end of completing two years, they are given certificates. They share their experiences and testimonies, what the two years have done in their lives and how they are spiritually motivated to go to be witnesses of God’s love.
A taste of the Word of God wherein they experience the Love of God in Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life. The students are spirit filled, their prayer life grows, they experience the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, knowing that he is the living God.
Bible Sunday is celebrated with the Eucharist, animated by Bible cell members. After the Eucharist Bible Cell members stand outside the church with a box of bible verses and chocolates, all those who answer get a chocolate. We see the joy in people,s faces. This day is followed by a celebration of all past and present students. A lovely fellowship.
Our students feel that they are chosen by God to be here and this time well spent in understanding the Word of God.
In the words of St. Augustine….
To search for God is a challenging human adventure, to find God is the noblest human achievement, to fall in love with God is life’s highest fulfilment.
Leader
Mrs. Fay Mckinley
9833283792
Asst. Leader
Mrs. Wilma Rose
9920167560
Asst. Leader
Mr. Daniel
8779026019
Prison Ministry is a dedicated voluntary service focused on the renewal and rehabilitation of Prisoners. Our mission is to provide individuals with a renewed chance to build a better life upon their release.
Each week, our volunteers visit prisons and observation homes in Dongri, Byculla, Thane, and Arthur Road. We conduct a variety of regular classes aimed at empowering the inmates and children, including academic subjects, beautification, etiquette, sports, computer skills, music, arts and crafts, and culinary training.
These programs are designed to equip them with essential skills for reintegration into society. Additionally, we organize health camps offering dental, hearing, and gynaecological services to address the medical needs of the children. We also celebrate significant occasions such as Diwali and Christmas, bringing joy and a sense of normalcy to their lives.
Through these initiatives, we strive to reform Prisoners and provide them with the tools for a brighter and more promising future.
Edna Lobo
President
7045391479
Arnold Mathias
Secretary
99871 88481
Trevor D’souza
Treasurer
98205 07090
To assist priests during liturgical celebrations by way of managing congregation movement, seating arrangements, facilitating distribution of communion by Eucharistic Ministers.
Chrisneil D’souza
Head
9773468804
Remson Fernandes
Asst Head
8108056216
Objectives/tasks:
The St. Vincent de Paul Society is a lay Catholic organisation that aspires to live the gospel message by serving Christ in the poor with love, respect, justice, hope and joy, and by working to shape a more just and compassionate society.
Contact:
Head: Shalet Fernandes – 98191 44391
Asst. Head: Benedicta Simon – 8424846837
Official website: https://ssvpindia.org
Shalet Maxie Fernandes
President
Benedicta Simon
Vice-President
Cynthia Mathias
Secretary
Joseph D'souza
Treasurer
St Joseph’s – Sunday School (SS) 2024-2025
Objective: The team at Sunday school works towards the faith formation of young children and teenagers. This involves exposing them to lessons at sunday classes based on the Bible and various teachings of the Catholic church.
The activities at SS aspire to help nurture christian values and their love & service towards God, others and self.
Aiming to make them aware of their mission in Christ Jesus.
Vanessa D’souza
Head
SS & Secondary School Co-ordinator
Jovita Barboza
Head
SS Primary Co-ordinator
Preeti Fernandes
Asst. Head
SS Primary Coordinator
Helen Fallero
Asst. Head
SS Secondary Coordinator
Jerald D’souza
Head
Confirmation Coordinator
Sabina Correa
Asst. Head
Confirmation & Deanery Coordinator
Various activities planned at Sunday school this year 2024-2025
For the teachers: Training and Recollections for Catechists:
1) Recollections at a Deanery level in coordination with the DCC team. We have finished one on “Prayer” by Rev Fr Regan D’souza on 7th July, 2024.
2) Training for new and current Catechists by Mr. Avil Noronha on how to conduct the class & lesson on 23rd June 2024
3) FHC & confirmation Catechists attended a training on “How to make disciples” on 14th July,2024 at St Michael’s Church, Mahim.
4) Teachers day celebration & teachers picnic.
5) Teachers evaluation meeting to understand the working of the group with feedback to improve.
6) Bible quiz on the Gospel of John.
7) Other activities are under discussions.
For the children:
1) Bible quiz: We will be beginning with the Bible quiz on the Gospel of John, in Aug 2024 for Std 4th to Confirmation.
2) Faith Celebration day (FCD) for 5-6th, 7-8th & 9th.
3) Parents day celebration on 28th July 2024. SS children have put up various performances guided by their teachers & older SS students who have volunteered to help train the children.
4) Nativity novenas for SS students.
5) Christmas day celebration for SS students.
6) Way of the cross to be conducted by SS children on Thursdays and Special WoTC to be conducted before the SS mass.
7 ) Common AV session by SS teacher’s and guest speakers.
8) SS quiz Final quiz conducted with winners being felicitated at the closing mass.
9) Confirmation students one-day retreat on 7th July, 2024, conducted by YU4C.
10) Other activities are under discussion
For the parents:
1) Parenting session for FHC parent conducted by a guest speaker.
2) FHC and Confo PTA to understand the expectations from the team.
3) Other activities are under discussion.
FRATERNITY OF MALAYALEE CATHOLICS
St. Joseph Church Mira Road (Mira-Bhayander Unit)
In 2023, The Fraternity of Malayalee Catholics held several key events, starting with their Annual General Body Meeting on September 3, at Little Flower Hall, followed by a fellowship meal. Regular monthly activities included committee meetings every first Saturday and prayer gatherings every third Saturday. The community organized a Malayalam mass every first Sunday at 9 AM at Little Flower Hall. Significant events included Malayalam services at Uttan Church on September 6th and at Mount Mary Church on September 16th, 2023, the All Souls Day mass at Shalini Bhavan in Sion after the 2nd November on first Sunday, Good Friday the Way of the Cross will be observed at St. Joseph Church and in members’ homes on Fridays during Lent at 8 pm .Additional notable events were the Central AGM at Shalini Bhavan on November 27, the 32nd Annual Day Celebration at St. Xaviour’s Church, Bhandup on January 29, and a Bible Convention on March 25-26 at Shalini Bhavan, Sion.
For 2024, The association has planned a series of recurring and special events. The Annual General Body Meeting is scheduled for August 4, at Little Flower Hall, followed by a fellowship meal. Monthly committee meetings and prayer gatherings will continue as before. The Malayalam mass will remain a fixture on the first Sunday of each month at at Little Flower Hall. Key events include Malayalam services at Uttan Church on September 7th and Mount Mary Church on Friday 13th September at 11.30 am, and the All Souls Day mass at Shalini Bhavan in Sion after the 2nd November on first Sunday. Good Friday the Way of the Cross will be observed at St. Joseph Church and in members’ homes on Fridays during Lent at 8 pm. Other major events are the Central AGM on September 22, the 33rd Annual Day Celebration at St. Xaviour’s Church, Bhandup on January 28, and a three-day retreat during the Lent season in March at Shalini Bhavan, Sion.
Contact:
Head: K Mathan Kunjumon – 9819985638
K Mathan Kunjumon
President
9819985638
Dory Dcruz
Secretary
9920385686
Rani Paul
Treasurer
9920729801
WOMEN’S CELL
(St. Joseph’s Church, Mira Road East)
Aim: To impart knowledge, create opportunities, enable people to realize their potential for a life of equality, empowerment, personal enhancement and professional success.
Vision: To envision a society where women and girls are valued and respected as equally created in the image of God, able to enjoy their rights, participate in decision making processes with women’s perceptive as equal partners in the family, church and society.
Objectives:
– The cell conducts various awareness programs on health, legal, defence techniques, etc to spread social awareness.
– To empower people in raising their voice against gender discrimination, injustice, violence, to encourage good family values to raise happy and united families.
– To identify and promote strong leadership, growth of individuals, develop self-confidence and obtain support from relevant people/groups.
– Marriage Bureau aims at uniting people in holy matrimony
Contact:
Head: Lucy Lobo – 97692 42813
Asst. Head: Debbie Zuzarte – 77387 53005
Lucy Lobo
Head
9769242813
Debbie Zuzarte
Asst. Head
7738753005
Leonora D’souza
Treasurer
9930102218
Planner for 2024-25:
Girl Child Day – September’24
Health Session for females – September’24
Session on Violence Free Families – November’24
Marriage Bureau event – Single’s Meet – January’25
Women’s Day – March’25