Media Release

Mumbai, Mar 8: International Women’s Day was celebrated by Bombay archdiocese’s women cell at Canossa High School Hall, Mahim, on March 4.

The theme of the day was ‘Push the pace of progress’. The programme began at 9.30 am with Women’s Creed followed by Women’s Anthem. General secretary Jean Saldanha welcomed the gathering. Students of Canossa High School presented a dance.

Bishop Agnello Gracious was the chief guest. In his speech, he had a special greeting for all the women throughout the world who are seeking every day to build a more human and welcoming society. He also thanked men for encouraging women in their family and also gave a message to both men and women to work hand in hand and shoulder to shoulder so they are close to and next to each other.

A power point presentation given on different topics by Dr Angelica D’Souza on Health and Survival explaining how we must take care of our ownself and not to neglect the health, Economic Participation and Opportunity by Naomi D’Silva, and Educational Attainment and Political Empowerment by Merlyn D’Sa.

Kanta Nadar was honoured by Bishop Agnello for her extreme step in educating less fortunate women including her three children.

Fr Anthony, the coordinator of diocesean Women Cell too congratulated all the women. He thanked the present secretary Jean and past secretary Marcia for bringing together all the women of different deaneries from Bhayander to New Bombay and maintaining equality. He also gave a suggestion to choose a priest from the respective deanery as a deanery coordinator.

Pearl from Malad entertained the gathering by keeping women busy with different exercises, spot prize game etc.

The programme concluded with Holy Mass by Bishop Agenello concelebrated by Fr Anthony.

General secretary Jean thanked Bishop Agnello, Fr Anthony, sisters of Canossa, all the supporters, and the large crowd who helped to make the celebration a grand success.

More than 500 participants from deaneries across the archdiocese were present.

Tea, Snacks and Lunch boxes were distributed to all.