Celebrating Mother's Day at The Church of the Epiphany

Mother's Day was celebrated as a special Mass at the Church of the Epiphany, Civil Lines, Gurgaon, on the 10th of May. The service was a reflection of the contribution of mothers in the Bible. Tributes were made to the mothers who played an exemplary role in the lives of the parishioners. Sunday School children presented songs and skits celebrating the importance of motherhood.

It was indeed a touching moment, remembering mothers and grandmothers, real-life examples of patience, unconditional love, service without reward, and teachings that would last a lifetime. The power of motherhood transcends all considerations; it is borne out of sacrifice, the gift of giving life, and the strength that transcends all thresholds of pain, resilience, and patience.

What emerged from the Mass was that mothers are the keystone that binds the family together. They are the cement that firms up relationships. The occasion had a special meaning for me because one day before Mother's Day, we celebrated the life of my mother, who had passed away on the 23rd of March, a lady who was strong in her faith, a teacher, a mother, and a mentor.

For my family and me, my mother was the epitome of motherhood. She taught us in times when we were in the middle of a vast forest, surrounded by wild animals. She home-schooled us till we reached school. During her last days, she would welcome me when we (my wife and I) came back from work at school. She always asked me if I had had my food. This irritated me, but now I realise that she was expressing concern for me.

The lesson for us is to treasure the times we spend with our mothers, to accept their tirades and scoldings that are meant to train us for the world. Mothers are the true nurturers; they are the true heroes, the super-heroes who work to make life meaningful.

Motherhood can defeat wars, factions, and violence. Motherhood is the magical concoction, the glue that binds the world. If only those who declare wars and dissent would understand that we are one and that life starts in the womb. Crazy people are waging wars; they don't know that true motherhood goes against war. True motherhood binds people, and it does not divide them.

At the Inauguration of the ECHOS Hall at the Church of The Epiphany, Gurgaon

Today, on the 3rd of May, 2026, we were graced by Rt Revd. Dr. Paul Swaroop, Bishop, Diocese of Delhi (CNI), was present at Sunday Mass to inaugurate and bless the newly renovated ECHOS Hall in the basement. The full form of the term, 'ECHOS', is Epiphany Community Hospitality Outreach Sanctuary Hall.

In his sermon, Rt. Revd. Bishop Paul Swaroop spoke at length about the significance of light in Biblical terms. He spoke about how light gives us courage, it gives us hope, and helps us to see clearly. It got me thinking also about how good teachers are like light, they give courage to others, hope to some, and help a few see.

Also present on the occasion was the Secretary of the Diocese of Delhi (CNI), Mr. Rohit David, and his wife. The first Lady of the Diocese, Mrs Nina Swaroop, was also present on the occasion.

Of course, the pews were packed with the faithful and those drawn to the message on the day. It was indeed most heartening to see so many people braving the summer sun to attend worship service at the church.