Teaching is one of the two noblest professions in the world, the other being nursing. It is common knowledge that mother is our first teacher. However, at some point of time in our life, she hands the baton over to school teachers, who over the next decade and a half or so shape our lives so that we are able to stand on our feet and become good citizen of the country. Therefore it is natural for every person to show gratitude to his/her mentors.
India celebrates Teachers’ Day on September 5 to commemorate the birthday of India’s second President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Guardian Angel church has been honouring the teachers on the occasion of Teachers’ Day since the past several years. This year, the Young Catholic Students Movement in association with the Education Commission celebrated Teachers’ Day on 3rd September 2023.
The teachers of the parish led the liturgy during the 7.30 a.m. mass celebrated by Socius Priest Rev. Fr Jerald Pinto. The Eucharistic celebration was followed by a get-together at the Golden Jubilee Memorial Hall. The programme commenced with a prayer song by YCS members. President of YCS, Dieon Pinto welcomed the gathering.
Angelore is a treasure trove of excellence and keeping with the tradition of having parishioners as chief guests on the Teachers’ Day, Dr. Anup Veigas was chosen as the Chief Guest of the day. He shared his experience as teacher and highlighted how teachers work hard to shape the future of their students, and thereby that of the country. Mr. Paul Rodrigues, Vice President of Parish Pastoral Council and a teacher himself, called upon the teachers to strive to inculcate moral values in children. In his Presidential address, Rev. Fr Jerald Pinto spoke about experience of present day teachers vis-à-vis that of the past. Mrs. Lolina D’Souza, Secretary of the PPC; Ms. Renita Menezes, Coordinator of 21 Pastoral Commissions and YCS animator, and Ms. Reema Sequeira, YCS animator were present on the dais.
After the formal programme, the YCS members entertained the gathering with songs, dance and games. As a token of love, the teachers were given a memento. Grashal Fernandes gave the Vote of Thanks. The programme was compèred by Mahima Saldanha.
