St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Bikaner

Farewell and Welcome

On the 9th of March 2025 , the parish bid farewell to Fr. StephenSwaranjeet CST who after two years of commendable service as assistant parish priest, has been transferred to Little Flower Catholic Church, Jhunjhunu , to continue his divine vocation. Remarking on his service and tenure here Sr. Juliana presented a heartfelt articulate vote of thanks which resonated with the emotions of all the parishioners . Mrs Gloria Stephen expressed gratitude to father on behalf of the women’s commission. On the same day, Fr Juslin James CST the new asst. parish priest was welcomed wholeheartedly. Thank you dear Fr Stephen and hearty welcome Fr Juslin.

Charity begins from parish!

On 16th March the women’s association members along with the catechism children visited (name of the centre) a home for the destitutes, run by SD Sisters. The inmateswarmly welcomed the children and set a family atmosphere in which they experience the compassionate love that God expects from them and they reciprocated it with their innocent fervour and glee. Fr. Juslinthe asst. parish priest took charge of the event and conducted games which were all inclusive. The sisters of S.D. convent were not just welcoming but imparted children the Lenten lessons of service and care for the suffering and the marginalized. Everyone present danced, sang, played and participated enthusiastically. This event was not just a successful endeavour but it left indelible memories that will continue to linger in the young minds of the children.

After one week, on 23 March the youth of the parish visited the same centre and spent quality time with the inmates by organizing games, performing programmes and distributing edibles for them. Like the children, the youth too were enlightened by this visit and drove first hand lessons of selfless service and care for the poor.

Women’s Day Celebration

St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Bikaner, celebrated Women’s Day on March 30, 2025. The event, exclusively organized by the men of the parish was an acknowledgement of the unparallel role played by women in their lives as mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend.

The celebration commenced with the men ushering the women into the church with a badge and commemorative quote card before the solemn Holy Mass, presided over by Fr.Stephen Swaranjeet CST from Little Flower Catholic Church, Jhunjhunu and co-celebrated by Fr Saju Augustine the parish priest, Fr Sandeep Thomas the principal of BBS, Bikaner and Fr Juslin James the assistant parish priest. The church choir, led by men, sang soulful hymns, setting a reverent and uplifting atmosphere for the occasion.Fr. Stephen in his homily emphasized the invaluable role of women in the Church, families, and society.

After the Mass, a stage programme was held exclusively led by men, showcasing their appreciation and respect for women through various performances. The event featured: Cinematic dance by children, A special fusion dance by men choreographed with thanks giving plaque-cards and women’s day greetings, a dramatic mime on women’s rights and gender equality by the parish’s youth, a choir performance dedicated to the strength and resilience of women by the catechism children,

The event also witnessed special recognition of Ms.Alice Remedioswho received a lifetime achievement award from the diocese of Jaipur for devoting her lifefor the faith nourishment of the community and was awarded with a shawl of honour, memento and certificates. In addition to that, Mrs. Gloria Stephen and Mrs Suchita Toppofrom the parish were also honoured for their outstanding contributions to education, healthcare, and social work. The raffle prices won by the parishioners were also presented on the same day.

The celebration concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Mrs. Tina Johny , acknowledging the efforts of the men in meticulously planning and successfully executing the event. The event was concluded with a lunch followed, allowing participants to share in fellowship and joy.

The Women’s Day event at St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Bikaner, was a remarkable success, reinforcing the values of respect, empowerment, and faith while celebrating the achievements of women in a unique way.

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REPORT

St. Xavier’s Parish Women cell
Activity of March 2024

8th March
Visit to Mother Teresa home, Pratap Nagar
On the occasion of International Women’s day ,the women of St.Xavier’s parish visited the Mother Teresa home, Pratap Nagar to spend some quality time with the special patients . A bus was arranged by the Parish priest for the parish women to commute .It was motivating to witness the dedication and compassion of the MC sisters .The parish women donated diapers ,veggies and some other needs of the patients . After spending few hours there ,we can proudly say that Mother Teresa's mission lives on, in Mother’s house .

24th March
Lent is that sacred time when we remember the depths of God’s love for us expressed in the mysteries of Passion, Death and Resurrection. A Lenten recollection and Adoration was organized by the Women cell of the parish .It was conducted by Sr.Marie James of M C home,C scheme.This recollection gave time to reflect on these mysteries and give thanks for the great and merciful love of God for us. Through prayer, reflection and silence, we hope to find renewal and meaning in our own experiences of death and life and let Jesus teach us what it means to be anchored in love and live in hope. During the Recollection which resounded with the invitation to “Pause” in order to look and contemplate, to “See” the real face of Jesus and to “Return” without fear, to experience the healing and reconciling tenderness of God.

Sr.Marie said the season of Lent is a time “to remedy the dissonant chords of our Christian life.

Breakfast and Lunch arrangements were made by the Women cell of the parish .

REPORT

St. John the Baptist Church Lalarpura Women Cell – March Activity

“A Strong Woman is one who feels deeply and loves fiercely. Her tears flow as abundantly as her laughter. She is both soft and powerful, is both practical and spiritual. In her essence, a strong woman is a gift to the world”.

The Women Cell of St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura on 17th March 2024, organized a special felicitation programme for those women who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.

The liturgy for the day was conducted by the members of the women cell followed by felicitation programme. As a small token of appreciation, the achievers were presented mementos and gifts by Rev Fr. Moorthilal and Fr. Georgish Bitto. The achievers were: Ms. Mercy Thomas, Ms. Ritty Francis and Ms. Aishwarya Dexter.

The felicitation event for women in their professions was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in the workforce. It served as a reminder of the valuable contribution that women make to society and underscored the Church’s commitment to supporting and empowering women in their professional endeavors.

Shiny Jobin
Secretary
Women Cell of St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura

Report - St. Xavier Parish 2023 24

Annual General body Meeting on 8 March 2023.
March - Women's day Celebration on Parish level. (Total Liturgy by W.C)
April - Visit to Missionary of Charity home with vegetables and Cash on Good Friday.
May 31st - Ending the month of May by WC Pysam - sponsored by WC.
The Parish women cell organised a free medical health check up camp on the occasion.
July 31st - Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyala Active participation of the WC and presentation of token gifts to the Jesuits priests.
August 27th - Participation in the Feast Day celebration of St. Monica at Pastoral Centre, Ghat Gate.
Won two prizes , first was for most vibrant stall and second was for the maximum number of women participants from our parish (55)
September - A health care camp was organised.
8th September - Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and girl child day celebrations. All the girl children of the Parish were given a token gift by the women cell. Delicious payasam was served to all.
October 22 nd - Organised a medical Camp with the co-operation of doctors and medical team from Fortis Hospital.
October 29th - Active participation in the liturgy. Women Commission gave token gifts to the first Communicants.
December 3rd - Feast of Saint Francis Xavier . Women Commission gave gifts to all the Jesuit priests and took part in the liturgy.
January 7th - Parish get together. Entire function including snacks and lunch was taken care by women Commission including most of the prizes in sports and games.
March 5th - The Parish celebrated International Women's Day in the church on March 5th. The liturgy was conducted by the Parish women cell . The women of Parish had put up a stall to raise funds.

St. John the Baptist Church Lalarpura Women Cell – February Activity

Visiting the sick of the church is a practice rooted in compassion and care within many religious communities. Members of the church often visit those who are ill or in need of support to offer comfort, prayer, and practical assistance. These visits can provide emotional solace, spiritual guidance, and a sense of solidarity during challenging times. Visiting the sick of the church is considered a way to fulfill the biblical command to care for one another and show compassion to those who are suffering. It helps to create a sense of community and unity within the church, reminding members that they are not alone in their struggles and that they have a supportive network of fellow believers around them.

The Women Cell of St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura on 12th February 2024, visited the sick members of our parish along with Rev. Fr. Moorthilal and Deacon Vinod.

It was a thoughtful and compassionate gesture for members of the women cell to visit the sick members of the church. This act of kindness provides comfort and support to those who may be feeling unwell or in need of companionship. The women cell went and offered prayer for the sick individual. By offering their time and presence, the women demonstrate care and solidarity within the church community. Such visits can help uplift spirits, offer prayers, and show that the church values and supports its members in times of difficulty.

Shiny James
Secretary
Women Cell St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura

St. John the Baptist Church Lalarpura Women Cell – January Activity

“Women have been the backbone of mankind’s progress; their unwavering support and contribution helps in shaping a better world for all.”

The Women Cell ofSt. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura recognizes the significant challenges faced by the widows of our parish, who often find themselves in vulnerable and marginalized positions within society. Recognising the need to support these women, the cellorganised a program aimed at providing ration items to seven widows of our church to ensure their basic needs are met. The widows were called to the church and then essential items were distributed to them byDn. Vinod along with Women CellExecutives.

The provision of ration items for widows by the Women Cell marks a significant step towards empowering and supporting marginalized women of our parish. By addressing their basic needs, the program contributes to their overall well – being and improves their access to nutritious food.

This is the January activity executed by the Women Cell of St.John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura. The ration kits were contributed by the members of women cell.

Shiny James
Secretary
Women Cell St. John the Baptist Church, Lalarpura.

Women’s Day Celebration in St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Bikaner

St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Bikaner

Farewell and Welcome

Charity begins from parish!

Women’s Day Celebration