Chicago: It was a festive and one of the most awaited Christmas events for all the Catholics of Greater Chicago. History was made with first ever Cardinal’s visit with all the Indian Catholic community of Chicago area. In spite of snowstorm in the forecast, the Waterford Banquets’ Grand Ballroom was packed with representation from various communities of Chicagoland. People came from surrounding states to participate in the Eucharistic Celebration by Cardinal Cupich.
This program was arranged under the banner of Indian Catholics of Chicago by three major Catholic Associations of Chicagoland area. The representatives of India Catholic Association of America, Mangalorean Konkan Christians Association and Kerala Latin Catholics Association’s meticulous planning gave this Christmas program a thundering success.
The program was initiated with Celebration of Holy Eucharist by His Eminence Cardinal Cupich, who was accompanied by eight other priests of surrounding communities. Cardinal Cupich in his sermon reminded the celebrants present that we are in our journey in this world and it shall be a fruitful one through our good deeds to others. He highlighted how Indian families come together to celebrate and rejoice with their whole family as one, which symbolizes the bond and togetherness. He said it is a unique cultural aspect. He reminded the celebrants that Indian Catholics have rich and historic cultural and spiritual heritage with the introduction of Christian faith by the apostle of Jesus Christ, St. Thomas.
The celebration of the Holy Eucharist was highlighted by the three groups of Choirs from the representatives of the Associations involved with the hymns sung in English, Konkani and Malayalam. The Cardinal Cupich expressed his appreciation for welcoming him with such grandeur. As a token of love and appreciation, the Association representatives presented a cheque to Cardinal Cupich. Holy Eucharist was followed by cultural program where all the children present received Christmas presents from Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause (Randy Makela and Anita D’Souza). There was raffle draw with many attendees winning several unique basketfuls of goodies.
The organizers arranged mouth watering ethnic snacks followed by sumptuous ethnic dinner. The attendees danced until they dropped for the DJ’s English, Konkani, Hindi and Spanish musical tunes. The program was very effectively conducted by compere Anil D’Souza. The organizing committee consisted Bill Ferreira, Prem Britto, Joe D’Mello, Denzil D’Souza from ICAA, Vissia D’Souza, Austin Prabhu and Queenie Mendonca (from MKCA) and Herald Figueiredo and Joseph Shaju from KLCC.
