12/09/2026
The Confirmation students of Good Shepherd Church, Andheri West, and Our Lady of Health Church, Versova, visited the Diocesan Clergy Home in Bandra on August 16, 2026.
The Diocesan Clergy Home provides retirement care, medical support, fellowship and a prayerful environment for retired priests of the Archdiocese of Bombay. It currently houses 14 priests and a bishop emeritus, all over the age of 80.
The visit began with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Merwyn D’Souza, Joint Director of the Clergy Home, in the Home’s chapel. In his homily, Fr Merwyn encouraged the Confirmation students to grow closer to the teachings of the Church and build a strong foundation in faith as they journey into adulthood.
After breakfast, the students visited the retired priests in small groups, listening to their inspiring stories of vocation, ministry, challenges and service to the Church. Each interaction ended with the students expressing their gratitude, followed by a special blessing from the priest they visited.
The students described the experience as “very meaningful,” touching and inspiring. They were particularly moved by the priests’ joy, wisdom and continued witness of faith despite age and declining health. The visit also gave them a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices and varied responsibilities involved in a priest’s life.
Fr Merwyn D’Souza expressed the hope that more Confirmation students from parishes across the Archdiocese would visit the Home, saying that young people would benefit immensely from the life experiences and wisdom of the retired priests.
Abigail Nair and Angelina Frank (Confirmation students)
