The Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Unit of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Hosad, was formally established on 25 October 2026, with the participation of 31 children, marking an important step towards nurturing the missionary spirit among children in the parish.

The programme began with a procession of the children, animators and the priests, followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The celebration commenced with the lighting of candles, symbolising Christ as the Light of the World. At the beginning of the Mass, the parish priest, Fr. Pascal Rodrigues welcomed Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Secretary of the Commission for Proclamation and Evangelization, and explained the purpose and significance of establishing the MCA Unit in the parish.

Fr. Stewart Fernandes presided over the Eucharistic celebration and delivered the homily. In his homily, Fr. Stewart Fernandes reflected on the theme of love of God and neighbour, emphasising that genuine Christian love must be expressed through prayer, kindness, sharing and service to others. He also highlighted the importance of the Missionary Childhood Association in helping children grow in faith, develop missionary awareness and participate actively in the mission of the Church. He encouraged the children to become little missionaries by sharing God’s love with everyone they encounter.

Following the homily, the children took the missionary oath, and the MCA Unit was formally established by Fr. Stewart Fernandes along with the parish priest, Fr. Pascal Rodrigues.

After the Holy Eucharist, a stage programme was organised. Mr. Edwin welcomed the gathering, and Fr. Pascal Rodrigues addressed the children, encouraging them to become little missionaries of Jesus by witnessing to His love through their words and actions.

The programme continued with an informative session conducted by Fr. Stewart Fernandes. He explained the aims, objectives and importance of the Missionary Childhood Association in the life and mission of the Church. The children participated enthusiastically and showed keen interest in understanding their role and responsibilities as young missionaries.

At the conclusion of the programme, Fr. Pascal Rodrigues expressed his sincere gratitude to Fr. Stewart Fernandes for his presence, guidance and valuable contribution towards establishing the MCA Unit in the parish.

The establishment of the MCA Unit marks the beginning of a journey of faith, prayer and missionary commitment for the children of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Hosad, inspiring them to grow as joyful witnesses of Christ and little missionaries in their families, parish and community.