
Kolkata, 3 May – Auxilium Parish in Gobra marked a significant milestone on May 3, 2026, by hosting a joint celebration for International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day. The event drew a large gathering of parishioners to recognize the pivotal role of women in both the family and the local church community. By aligning the celebration with the first Sunday of May, the parish combined the spirit of "Give to Gain" with the Mother’s Day theme of "Strength, Love, and Sacrifice," filling a gap left when the March observance was deferred.
The festivities commenced with a solemn Holy Eucharist presided over by Parish Priest Fr. E. J. Anthony. In a display of communal harmony, the liturgy was prepared by the parish’s three linguistic groups, reflecting a unified approach to worship. During his homily, Fr. Anthony drew from the readings of the Fifth Sunday of Easter to speak on the dignity of women, describing them as vital pillars of faith and service.
The program transitioned to the parish hall for a cultural assembly anchored by the Women’s Cell leadership, including President Mrs. Kanchan Osta and Secretary Mrs. Prasina Mondal. A major highlight of the afternoon was the formal recognition of seven "Inspirational Ladies" for their decades of selfless commitment to the parish. The honorees—Sr. Margaret Ghosh FMA, Mrs. Rina Topno, Mrs. Sandhya Gomes, Mrs. Charmaine Bajaj, Mrs. Anna Sarkar, Mrs. Lucy Lin, and Mrs. Bharati Das—provided moving testimonies regarding their service.
Performances by women and young girls followed, tackling contemporary social challenges through song and dance while affirming the progress of womanhood. The event concluded with a creative Religious Fashion Show, where participants portrayed biblical figures and saints to provide a catechetical lesson on holy women in history. The day ended with a fellowship meal, leaving the congregation with a deep sense of joy and communal solidarity.
-Amit & Kanchan Osta