Carmelite Monastery Celebrates Grandparents Day with Prayer and Joy
On Sunday, 27th July 2025, the Carmelite Monastery joyfully celebrated Grandparents Day, blending spiritual depth with joyful celebration. Organised by the Catechism Ministry, the day began with Holy Mass and continued with a vibrant fellowship program, making it a memorable event for all generations.
Celebrating Saints Joachim and Anne – Grandparents of Jesus
This special day was anchored in the inspiration of Saint Joachim and Saint Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. Though their story is not found in Scripture, tradition reveres them as models of faith and devotion. Their quiet strength reminds us how the spiritual influence of grandparents can shape families and deepen faith across generations.
Holy Mass and the Power of Intergenerational Prayer
The celebration began with a Holy Mass at 9:00 AM, offered for all grandparents—living, ailing, and those who have passed into eternal life. Fr Marlon Rodrigues OCD, Prior of the Carmelite Monastery and Spiritual Director of the Catechism Ministry, presided over the Mass and delivered a touching homily based on the day’s Gospel from Luke 11:1–13.
Fr Marlon Rodrigues OCD reflected on Jesus’ teaching on prayer, urging families to turn to God in persistent and trusting prayer. He drew a moving parallel with Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, highlighting her saintly parents and the profound spiritual legacy they left behind. All four of her sisters became nuns, testifying to the power of a prayerful home.
He emphasized how the prayers of grandparents and parents can nurture vocations and support the spiritual wellbeing of children, reinforcing the timeless message that “a family that prays together, stays together.” In a heartfelt moment, he also prayed for grandparents who were unwell or unable to attend, and lovingly remembered those now with the Heavenly Father.
A Joyful Fellowship Full of Love and Surprises
After Mass, the celebration continued with a fellowship program filled with music, performances, and heartwarming gestures—beautifully arranged by the Catechism Ministry.
Program Highlights:
- A warm welcome from the emcee set a joyful tone for the morning.
- The Catechism Choir performed a special song, while handcrafted cards were distributed to the grandparents, filling the room with emotion.
- During another musical performance, tea and sandwiches were served, blending nourishment with melody.
- Spot prizes brought joy and cheerful anticipation throughout the program.
- A join-in song encouraged all present to sing together, celebrating unity and shared faith.
- A dance performance added rhythm and excitement to the gathering.
- Finally, thoughtful gifts were distributed to every grandparent. These heartfelt tokens served as a poignant reminder of gratitude and appreciation.
As the event concluded, it left behind more than smiles and songs—it planted seeds of reflection. Grandparents are more than family elders; they are spiritual anchors whose prayers and presence guide generations.
Through this celebration, the Carmelite community and catechism ministry reaffirmed its commitment to honouring their wisdom, love, and unshakable faith. May we continue to follow their example by fostering homes rooted in prayer, love, and God’s grace.
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