Eucharistic Celebration to Begin Academic Year 2024-25

On June 1st, 2024, the entire Carmel teaching and non-teaching staff, along with the Catholic students, gathered around the Eucharistic table for a Thanksgiving Eucharist, marking the beginning of the academic year 2024-25. The mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Maxim D Souza- Parish Priest of Jeppu Parish. In his introduction, Fr. Maxim prayed for parents on the occasion of the World Day of Parents, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices and dedication. The ceremony featured active participation from many students, who were meticulously trained by Sr. Premal, the Vice Principal, to read the mass introduction, Scriptural Readings, Psalm and prayers of the faithful with clarity and devotion.

During his homily, Fr. Maxim engaged the students by asking them to describe their school, with responses such as "temple of learning" and "second home." Using these descriptions and the day's gospel, he stressed on the importance of respecting teachers and seeing Jesus in them. He further referenced Aristotle's saying, "The root of education is bitter, but the fruit is sweet," to highpoint the value of perseverance, creativity and a service-oriented mindset. He requested students to ask questions, view the school as a sacred space and maintain a close relationship with God through prayer. The homily concluded with a prayer for the health, strength and peace of mind of all parents, making it a thought-provoking and inspiring sermon.

The harmonious choir added to the mass's beauty, enabling meaningful participation from all attendees. At the end of the mass, Fr. Maxim offered a special blessing for the school, its students, classrooms, laboratories and entire building. The solemn moment was accompanied by the hymn "On This School Your Blessing, Lord," played over the intercom, creating a reverent and hopeful atmosphere. The event set a reflective and positive tone for the new academic year, underscoring the spiritual foundation and community spirit of Carmel School.