St. Anthony Church, Tarnamakki, joyfully celebrated Missionary Childhood Day on 8th February 2026 with the enthusiastic participation of children and animators. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Diocesan Secretary for the Commission for Proclamation and Evangelization, Diocese of Karwar.

During the entrance procession, the MCA children carried banners depicting different Christian virtues such as love, sharing, obedience, kindness, and service. These banners were reverently placed on a banana sapling near the altar, symbolizing the call to grow in virtues and bear fruit through a missionary life. The children meaningfully animated the entire liturgy through readings, offertory, choir, and other liturgical services, making the Eucharistic celebration lively and prayerful.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes reflected on the theme of being the “salt of the earth and the light of the world.” He encouraged the children to become service-minded persons, reminding them that small acts of love, kindness, and sharing can make a big difference in their families, schools, and society.

After the Holy Mass, a half-day program was organized for the MCA children. Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes conducted input sessions on how MCA children should live their daily lives as young missionaries—through prayer, good behavior, helping others, sharing what they have, and being witnesses of Jesus in their homes, schools, and parish. This was followed by group activities and fun-filled games organized with the help of the animators, making the learning joyful and practical.

The children actively participated in all the activities and thoroughly enjoyed the day. The celebration helped to instill in them a deeper awareness of their missionary call and strengthened their faith through joyful fellowship and learning.