Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 25: A day of recollection and prayer was organized by Fr Dr John Baptist Saldhana, manager LCS and Fr Robert Dsouza, principal of Lourdes Central School (LCS) on Saturday August 22 from 8.30 am to 12.00 noon to offer prayers in this time of pandemic for the suffering world and to bring a change for the good of the people. The entire catholic staff of Lourdes Central School and St Francis Xavier School participated actively in the prayer session.
The recollection began with a session by Fr Robert Dsouza who led the talk with prayer songs, anecdotes and stories with a view of boosting the morale of the people gathered to face the present dire situation during the pandemic. He stated that we need to overcome our fears and most importantly follow all safety guidelines as instructed by WHO. He thought that what one has to fear is fear itself. So, during these trying times, we need to muster courage and act tactfully to make our surroundings and workplace conducive and safe. Through very apt stories he made everyone realize the eternal love of God and the need for us to be patient to receive the best from his bounty.
The session continued with a talk led by Fr Dr John Baptist Saldhana, beginning with invoking the blessings of the Holy Spirit. He elicited the positivity that the people experienced during the lockdown period. His focus was on the role played by teachers post-pandemic. He created an allegory to explain the role of a teacher in a student’s life. He also shared real-life experiences to elaborate on the importance of being a true, able and genuine teacher to the taught. He reiterated that we as teachers need to equip ourselves to face challenges post-COVID-19.
The session of recollection and prayer concluded with the Eucharistic celebration and veneration of the Holy Eucharist by the main celebrant Fr Clifford Fernandes. He guided the staff gathered to introspect and be in peace with themselves. He shared anecdotes to say that we need to humble ourselves to receive the graces from God. He also said that we need to pray for others and when we pray together our prayers are truly heard.
The entire staff had a great opportunity to renew their spirits and get geared up to face trials to be prepared for the time after the pandemic.