- 07 October, 2025
Pune, October 7, 2025 — More than 400 parishioners from 15 parishes of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Zone gathered in joy and communion to celebrate the BECs Community Festival at Gulati Hall, St. Vincent’s High School, Camp.
The event, organised by the Poona Diocesan Animation Team (PDAT) for Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) in collaboration with parish BEC leaders, was held under the leadership of Fr. S. A. Louis, Diocesan Director of BECs and Parish Priest of St. Sebastian Church, Daund. Coordination was undertaken by BEC leaders of St. Xavier’s Church, Camp, led by Ms. Mavis Adams and guided by Parish Priest Fr. Joe D’Souza, SJ.
A sacred beginning
The day began with a solemn procession of the Holy Bible, led by members and Sisters of St. John the Baptist Community from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, accompanied by Sr. Mercy and Mr. Marshal. The Sisters of Maria Assunta and Br. Oliver, OFM, provided the hymn.
The Bible was enthroned by Fr. Raja, SJ, Vice Principal of St. Vincent’s High School, highlighting the Word of God as central to Christian life and the mission of BECs.
Gospel sharing at the heart of BECs
To underscore the role of Scripture in BECs, the festival commenced with the Seven Steps of Gospel Sharing, animated by Fr. Louis. Participants reflected on passages, shared personal insights, and concluded by identifying mission-oriented actions to live out the Gospel within their families and neighbourhoods.
“This reminded us all that Bible sharing is not merely reading Scripture, but living it in community,” participants affirmed.
Agents of hope
The guest speaker, Fr. Mathew Rodrigues, MSFS, Parish Priest of St. Francis de Sales Church, Shaniwarwada, delivered a talk titled “BECs as Agents of Hope for Our Families.” He described BECs as agents of healing in families, centres of faith formation for children, support for the vulnerable, and bearers of hope in every home.
His message encouraged the faithful to embody their faith in action, making BECs true instruments of renewal.
Testimonies and celebration
Faith testimonies from parish members offered powerful witness to the transformative role of BECs, underscoring that they are not just structures but living expressions of the Church. A lively theme song led by Ms. Juliana D’Mello and PDAT members added joy and energy to the gathering.
The Eucharistic highlight
The festival’s high point was the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Fr. Roque Alphonso, Diocesan Administrator. In his homily, he reminded participants that BECs are “a true way of being Church,” where faith is nurtured through humility, service, and love.
The day concluded with a fellowship meal that deepened bonds of unity among parishes.
Gratitude and mission
In closing remarks, Fr. Louis expressed heartfelt thanks to all collaborators, noting: “This festival is a celebration of who we are as Church — diverse, welcoming, and bringing hope to all our families in this Year of Jubilee.”
The BECs Community Festival 2025 strengthened the mission of BECs as a living Church within homes and neighbourhoods across the Diocese of Poona.
By Fr. Rohan Gawdhya
Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates:
Android: Click here to download
© 2025 CATHOLIC CONNECT POWERED BY ATCONLINE LLP
