Andrew Thomas OFM
From 2024 to 2025, I have the privilege of serving in Sunday ministry at St. Theresa of Child Jesus Parish, Singasandra, Bangalore. It is a joy to be part of this loving parish community, where I serve alongside Br. Nelson and five other brothers, making a total of seven of us engaged in different ministries. Though small in size, the parish is vibrant, welcoming, and full of faith, embracing us with warmth and making us feel at home.
A Pastor Who Inspires Our parish priest, Rev. Fr. Clement Deep, is a simple, kind, and deeply knowledgeable leader. He cares for us with great dedication and is an inspiring preacher who delivers his homilies with passion and devotion. His generosity and wisdom have guided us in our ministry, and our time with him has been truly enriching.
My Ministerial Responsibilities
1. Catechism Instructor for 10th Standard
Every Sunday, I teach catechism to 8-10 children. Their faith and eagerness to learn inspire me. Teaching them is not just about sharing knowledge; it is a journey of learning together. Their questions challenge me, and their insights deepen my own faith.
2. Music In-Charge for the Youth
I guide the youth in music ministry, encouraging them to participate in Mass and other parish events. Music helps them grow in faith and brings them closer to God.
3. Spiritual Mentor for the Youth Along with Mrs. Arun Pinto, I help guide the youth in their spiritual journey. We have meetings every second Sunday, and when she is away, I take full responsibility. Being part of the core team, I help plan events that strengthen their faith and sense of community.
4. Communion Distribution to the Sick & Family Visits
After catechism, I visit the sick to bring them Holy Communion. These visits have deepened my love for the Eucharist and taught me the importance of compassionate presence. One special visit was to an elderly couple who, despite their struggles, had strong faith and gratitude. Sitting with them, listening to their stories, and praying together reminded me of the power of faith and love.
Lessons from My Journey
Serving in this parish has been a beautiful experience that has taught me many valuable lessons:
Joy in being present – Small acts of kindness bring deep happiness.
The importance of ministering to the sick – Bringing Christ to them strengthens their faith and ours.
Learning from the children and parishioners – Their simple yet deep faith is a great inspiration.
Active involvement in parish life – When we serve with joy, faith grows stronger.
My time at St. Theresa of Child Jesus Parish has been a journey of faith, service, and personal growth. I cherish this opportunity and look forward to continuing to serve with love and joy.
Date |
Name of the Friars |
Events |
Year |
02 |
+ Matthew Walsh Jayaseelan P.R. |
Home Ordination |
1969 2001 |
04 |
+ Kentigern Stuart |
Home |
1995 |
08 |
Arokiam John Tom John Arockiasamy P. Niranjan Toppo |
Birth Solemn Vows Solemn Vows Birth |
1976 1999 1999 1993 |
09 |
Salun Kispotta |
Birth |
1995 |
10 |
Athanasius Xaxa |
Birth |
1959 |
11 |
+ Paulinus van Halderen |
Home |
1999 |
13 |
Bangalore Friary + Vincent Roy John Sekar |
Blessing Home Birth |
1952 1959 1982 |
14 |
Anthony Pushparaj |
Birth |
1976 |
15 |
+ Fidelis Magee |
Home |
1979 |
17 |
Stigmata of Francis Varghese Sebastian Richard D’ Silva Assisi Illam Dindigul |
Feast Birth Solemn Vows Blessing |
1947 1956 2010 |
18 |
Joseph of Cupertino |
Feast |
|
19 |
Mesia Elias Moses M. |
Birth |
1973 |
20 |
Tom John |
Birth |
1961 |
23 |
Padre Pio + John Forest Hogan A.J.Mathew Joseph |
Feast Home Birth |
1962 1989 |
24 |
Shalom Friary –Hyderabad |
Blessing |
1995 |
25 |
Sagaya Soosairaj |
Birth |
1968 |
26 |
+ Fabian D’ Souza |
Home |
2010 |
27 |
+ Conrad Gomes |
Home |
1993 |
28 |
Nicholas D’ Souza Lourdu Augustine Pradeep Anthony L. |
Birth Birth Birth |
1945 1976 1992 |
29 |
Sushil Beck Salim Baxla |
Birth Birth |
1973 1974 |