The church has been a hub of many activities and acted as a platform for the local youth to exhibit talent.
It has been over 100 years but 'Our Lady of Lourdes' or famously called the 'Orlem Church' in Malad has continued to be a destination where the faithful come for prayers and some others to spend a quiet time in contemplation.
"The Church was originally started by Joseph Braz D’souza in 1818, but it was then a part of Lady of Remedy, Kandivali. It was only on July 2, 1916 that Father Joseph's nephew Justin D’souza, became the caretaker and 'Our Lady of Lourdes, Orlem' was formed," said Father Gilbert Delime.
To mark 100 years of the church they have initiated a number of social activities. "We want to build a community of faith. We have divided this initiative into three parts - Fellowship, Foundation Program and Service. Under Fellowship program there are around 18,000 people, making it possibly one of the largest of its kind in the country. Under the foundation program, we held a 'Sex in your city' initiative for the youth which was about developing a Christian understanding of sex. About 400 people participated in it," Father Gilbert revealed. Initiatives like visiting juvenile homes and those affected by leprosy were a part of the service program.
The church has been a hub of many activities and acted as a platform for the local youth to exhibit talent.
At an event that is held in the first week of December there were dance events among others. "It was so heart warming to see how beautifully the youth delivered social messages through dance. We even had a fashion show from where one of the girls, Danielle, was picked up by the judges and selected for 'India's next top model' and she won! So Orlem is full of talents,” Father Gilbert said.
Christmas is a time for huge celebration at the church and is attended by around 18,000 people. It will also be a time where several social activities will be carried out.
The church has introduced a new program called 'The Glow'. Father Gilbert explains, "What we do is throw open the door of the church to the world. Since Pope Francis has declared this year as the Jubilee year of Mercy, we are directing our blessings to everyone through singing and silent prayers. The entire church was lit up with lamps on December 22 and everyone was enchanted.” The program will be continued on third Tuesday of every month.
People of other faith too are excited about the events at the church. Service at the church is carried out in Tamil and English.
The article was first published on www.iamin.in
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 "Christmas celebration at Orlem Church is known to attract around 18,000 people every year")
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