INTRODUCTION:-
A novena is a form of Christian prayer or devotion that involves nine days of focused and often repetitive prayer. The term “novena” is derived from the Latin word “novem,” meaning nine. Novenas are commonly practiced in the Catholic Church, but variations of this form of prayer can be found in other Christian denominations as well.
The purpose of a novena is typically to seek the intercession of a saint, the Virgin Mary, or to direct prayers towards a particular intention or request. The tradition of novenas has deep historical roots, and it is believed to have originated from the nine days that the disciples and Mary spent in prayer between Ascension Thursday and Pentecost Sunday, awaiting the descent of the Holy Spirit.
The structure of a novena involves praying a specific set of prayers or devotions each day for nine consecutive days. Devotees may recite particular prayers, hymns, or scripture passages, often accompanied by reflections or meditations on the chosen theme or intention.
ACTIVITIES AND CELEBRATIONS:-
- Prayer: The central activity of a novena is prayer. Participants typically engage in daily prayer, often reciting specific prayers, devotions, or scripture passages. The prayers are focused on the chosen intention or the saint or figure to whom the novena is dedicated.
- Reflection and Meditation: Many novenas include time for reflection and meditation. Participants may contemplate the themes, virtues, or teachings associated with the saint or the intention for which they are praying.
- Mass or Worship Services: In some cases, novenas are associated with regular worship services, especially in the Catholic Church. A novena might culminate in a special Mass or liturgical celebration on the ninth day.
- Community Participation: Novenas can be practiced individually or as a community. In some cases, group prayer sessions or communal gatherings are organized where participants come together to pray and share in the spiritual experience.
- Fasting or Sacrifice: Some individuals choose to incorporate fasting or making personal sacrifices during a novena as a way of intensifying their prayers and showing devotion.
- Processions or Pilgrimages: In certain cultural or religious traditions, especially in the context of Marian novenas, processions or pilgrimages to specific shrines or churches may be organized.
Our College is founded by the Trustee in the name of Mother Velankani known as/ named as MOTHER VELANKANI EDUCATION TRUST. On the day of Feast our College organized a grand procession. Before the feast day, students and teachers performed the 9 days Novenas from 30th August to 7th September. The hallway in front of Mother Velankani statue was decorated “by the teachers with the help of students. On the day of Feast, 8th September 2023, teachers wore Saree and students were dressed in traditional cloths. The school hired a Rath / Baghi for the procession of Mother Velankani . The Rath / Baghi was also decorated by the students. The chairperson Mrs. Asha Dsouza and Managing Director Mrs. Mable Vaz held the statue of Mother Velankani and sat in the Rath/Baghi. All the students were made to stand in two lines with teachers managing them in front and back of the Rath | Baghi. There was also a band hired which played church songs. The Route covered during the Procession was Mahesh Park – Ambawadi- Tiwari Nagar. After the procession ended in front of College, the statue of Mother Velankani was placed in its place for teachers and students to pay meir respects and offering. Later, the band played some songs and students and teachers danced to it. After that all students were seated in hall and the celebration started. The cake was cut on the occasion of Mother Mary’s Birthday. Students performed different performances as the management celebrated Teacher’s Day along with Mother Velankani Feast .Teachers were honoured with roses and students sang songs and gave speeches. Most of the students performed a dance. It was a fun day. This day ended with snacks distribution for the students.
