On July 21, 2024, the members of the Rose of Sharon Prayer Group were filled with excitement and heartfelt reverence as the Prayer Group celebrated its Golden Jubilee. This momentous occasion marked fifty years of faith, community spirit, and dedication to spiritual growth. The event was a grand affair, reflecting the deep gratitude and joy of all who have been part of this remarkable journey.

The Eucharistic Celebration:

The day commenced with a solemn and uplifting Eucharistic service at our Lady of Egypt Church, Kalina, concelebrated by Rev. Fr’s Mario Mendes, Evan D’Souza, Benhur Rodrigues and the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. John Lopes. The Eucharist was a beautiful tribute to the Prayer Group’s history, work carried out, with reflective hymns and prayers that echoed the group’s commitment to spiritual enrichment and community support. Rev. Fr. Mario Mendes, the Parish Priest of St. Annes Church, Pali Hill, Bandra; an ex-Prayer Group member, was the main Celebrant and his homily emphasized the significance of the Prayer Group’s mission over the decades, highlighting its role in fostering a close-knit community based on biblical values and nurturing countless lives through prayer and service.

Following the Mass, the congregation moved to St. Mary’s High School & Junior College Hall, which was elegantly decorated with gold and white themes to symbolize the jubilee milestone. The hall was adorned with a stunning array of arrangements celebrating the Prayer Group’s 50 year legacy.

Highlights of the Celebration:

1. Welcome Address: On behalf of the Core Team, Roshan Pinto, the Master of Ceremonies and a Core Team member himself welcomed the Prayer Group Members, Dignitaries, Special Invitees and other guests.
2. Prayer Time: The celebrations rightfully commenced with a short time of prayer led by Anora Pereira & Asha Mendes. The prayers made and the songs chosen uplifted everyone’s heart & spirit.
3. Golden Jubilee March followed by the Cake Cutting: The M.C. gave the call for a Golden Jubilee March led by the founding members & their families and followed by most of the attendees. It was a very exciting and spirit filled March encompassing fellowship and partnership! Post the March, Mr. Francis D’Souza and 2 other founding members family flanked by Rev. Fr.’s Mario & Melroy got ready to cut the Golden Jubilee cake which was specially baked for the occasion. However just before the cake cutting, the dear departed deceased members were remembered and prayed for, as also all those who couldn’t attend for whatever genuine reason. The cake was then cut with lots of joy and happiness!!
4. Felicitation for Rev. Fr. John Lopes: Post the cake cutting, Rev. Fr. Mario Mendes felicitated the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. John Lopes with a sapling. The M.C. then requested Fr. John Lopes to address the gathering which he did most happily, regaling one and all about his knowledge of the place ‘Sharon’ and its reference in the Bible!
5. Felicitation for the past Leaders & current Coordinator : Fr. John was then requested to handover a token of gratitude in the form of a wreath trophy to all the past Leaders as the M.C. spoke a few words about each Leader. These tokens of appreciation were a testament to the dedication and hard work of those who have contributed significantly over the years.
   A group photo of all Leaders was clicked at the end of the Felicitations. Mr. Francis D’Souza, one of the founding members was then asked to address the gathering.

6. Token of Gratitude for the past Core Team members & current ones too : The M.C. requested all past & present Core Team members to come on-stage to collect a small token of gratitude from Rev. Fr. Melroy Mendonca. A group photo was clicked at the end.
7. Entertainment : The attendees were then treated to some lively entertainment in the form of a dance performance by ROSPG Members followed by Theme Song of the Golden Jubilee, followed by the Youth Dance. Post this the M.C. conducted some exciting Spot Prizes and a fun Bible Quiz through a game. 
8. Coordinators Vote of Thanks : The present Coordinator Mr. Allwyn Tauro presented the Vote of Thanks with much gratitude to one and all.
9. Grace Before Meals : was led by the Zonal Coordinator Dr. Angelica D’Souza one of the erstwhile members of the Prayer Group and a sumptuous buffet Lunch was served to the attendees.
10. Commemorative Gifts & Lucky Dip: To honour the occasion, the Prayer Group presented commemorative gifts to the members and guests. Also 3 Lucky Dips were conducted and the winners given grand prizes.
11. Party Time! Dancing begins!! : As the elders went ahead to have lunch, the youth and others hit the dance floor as DJ Prakash regaled one and all with excellent lively music.

Reflections and Future Outlook:

As the event drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of accomplishment and hope for the future. The Golden Jubilee was not just a celebration of the past but also a reaffirmation of the group’s mission to ‘Launch Into The Deep’ and a commitment to continue its work in the years to come.

The Prayer Group expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported its journey and extended an open invitation for new members to join in its mission. With renewed enthusiasm and a stronger sense of community, the group looks forward to the next fifty years of faith, service, and spiritual growth.