Chicago: The year-long birthday charity project, Share with Joy – Prayer with Care, organized by the CML unit of St. Mary’s Knanaya Catholic Church, Chicago, concluded on September 20. The project aimed to transform birthday celebrations into opportunities to share joy, love and compassion with others. Through the initiative, assistance was extended to 12 deserving institutions in India and Africa. Following the English Mass at St. Mary’s Church, Pastor Fr. Siju Mudakodiyil offered a special blessing prayer for all those celebrating their birthdays during the month, with special prayers for the children of Mar Makil Balikabhavan, Punnathura.
CML President Isaac Mattathil presented the activities and achievements of the year-long project. CML Director Jojo Analil handed over the project report jointly to Pastor Fr. Siju Mudakodiyil and CML Spiritual Director Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil. CML executive members, coordinators, DREs and trustees participated in the programme. The birthday celebrants also cut a cake as part of the celebration. After the 10 a.m. Mass for adults, CML Joint Treasurer David Kalapurakal presented a summary of the project to the parents. Pastor Fr. Siju Mudakodiyil appreciated the efforts of Jojo Analil and called upon the parishioners to applaud his dedicated service.
The concluding programme of the project was held at Mar Makil Balikabhavan, Punnathura, Kottayam. Representatives from St. Mary’s Chicago, including Youth Trustee Felix Palakan, Philip Puthenpura, Jose Njaravelil, Biju Poothara, Jojo and Mini Edakara, and Kuriako Puramadathil, participated. Balikabhavan Director Sr. Rosmy SVM welcomed the gathering. The children presented various cultural programmes, followed by felicitations by Sr. Silvarious SVM and Felix Palakan. A fellowship lunch was also arranged.
The project became a meaningful expression of sharing, compassion, kindness, generosity and gratitude. The organizers expressed their appreciation to the parents, DREs, CCD teachers, CML coordinators, priests and well-wishers who supported the initiative. Special thanks were extended to Sr. Shalom for coordinating the donations. The project was inspired by the Biblical message, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
