HIS EMINENCE, OSWALD CARDINAL GRACIAS, ARCHBISHOP OF BOMBAY, ADDRESSES THE STUDENTS OF HOLY NAME HIGH SCHOOL ON INDEPENDENCE DAY
His Eminence, Oswald Cardinal Gracias. Archbishop of Bombay, led the Independence Day celebrations at the Holy Name High School in Colaba. While addressing the gathering of students, teachers and parents, His Eminence emphasised how India has grown and transformed itself from a country that was underdeveloped and struggling with inequalities and injustice to today, when we are one of the fastest developing nations.
For this, we have to thank the great leaders of our nation who not only gave us our independence but also gave us a vision that is enshrined in our Constitution. Over the years, all governments have contributed to the growth of the nation. Today, that responsibility of taking the nation forward rests on the shoulders of the younger generation. The vision they have for the country will shape the India of tomorrow. His Eminence emphasised to all present how important it is to be proud of our Indian identity and contribute to making our nation great. This we need to do with values of love, understanding and respect.
Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, the Cardinal celebrated the Holy Eucharist at the Cathedral of the Holy Name, during which he led people in prayer for the nation and its leaders.
Lending example to the commitment of the Church towards the poor and marginalised, His Eminence inaugurated a Community Fridge in which he placed the initial packets of food for the poor and homeless. The Cardinal also addressed the community present, exhorting them to act on our collective responsibility to care for our brothers and sisters and to do our bit to make a difference in the world.