Herma, 15th August 2026: On 15 August 2026, the community of Bosco Home Herma joyfully celebrated the twin feast of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Independence Day of India. The celebration brought together the two great occasions the honouring of Mother Mary and the celebration of the gift of freedom with a variety of spiritual, cultural and recreational activities held throughout the day.
The celebration began early in the morning at 6:30 a.m. with the Holy Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Fr. Glorious Syiemlieh, the Rector of the Community. The Eucharist was offered in thanksgiving to God for the gift of Mother Mary and for the blessings bestowed upon our nation. Following the Holy Mass, the entire community gathered in front of the house for the flag-hoisting ceremony. The flag-hoisting ceremony was organised and led by the Missionary Sodality, under the leadership of Pre-Novice Macjason Iawphniaw, the Chief Commander. Fr. Rector was honoured as the Chief Guest for the occasion. The ceremony was conducted with patriotic spirit and reverence, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made for the freedom of the nation and of their responsibility as citizens to contribute towards the growth and progress of the country. After the flag-hoisting ceremony, the community gathered for breakfast, followed by the regular morning jobs. At 9:00 a.m., the community came together once again for a time of games and recreation, animated by the Marian Sodality. Various activities were organised, including leg volleyball, futsal and a community basketball match. The games created an atmosphere of joy, fellowship and healthy competition, giving the community an opportunity to relax and celebrate together.
In the afternoon, the Pre-Novices dedicated their time to preparing for the evening’s Marian Academy. At 5:30 p.m., the community gathered for Community Adoration, offering prayers of thanksgiving for the gift of Mother Mary and for the gift of freedom received through India’s Independence. The time of Eucharistic Adoration provided a peaceful and prayerful moment amid the day’s celebrations. Following the Adoration, the community proceeded to the Community Hall for the Marian Academy. The programme commenced with an opening prayer led by Pre-Novice Christbert Lating, the host of the event. This was followed by a welcome speech delivered by Fr. Rector, who encouraged the community to celebrate the occasion with gratitude, joy and a deeper appreciation for the example and maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Academy continued with a series of cultural and creative performances presented by the Pre-Novices and the hostelers of Don Bosco School Herma. The performances showcased their talents, creativity and enthusiasm. One of the highlights of the programme was a skit entitled “Like the Heart of Mary,” presented by the brothers as a special tribute to Mother Mary. The skit beautifully reflected the virtues of Mary and invited everyone to imitate her loving, humble and selfless heart.
The entire programme was well organised and successfully conducted. The celebration of the twin feast provided the community with a meaningful opportunity to unite faith, patriotism, fraternity and joy. It reminded everyone that gratitude to God and love for the nation can go hand in hand, while the example of Mother Mary continues to inspire all to live with faith, humility, service and love. The beautiful day came to a joyful and successful conclusion, leaving the members of the Bosco Home Herma community with cherished memories of a celebration filled with prayer, patriotism, fellowship, recreation and Marian devotion.
Reported by Cl Mark Shanbor Thyrniang
