Recently all the Parishes and Schools of Mumbai came together at Sacred Heart School Hall, Santacruz, to celebrate Violence Free Families Day. The program began with a Prayer Service, which included a song and dance by school children. This was followed by an informative talk and presentation by Advocates Cassandra Fernandes and Joanita Britto on Human Trafficking, and screening of a film on the same created by the United Nations Organization showing examples from India. It was shocking to see how many women and children were unknowingly roped into this big business and then abducted, molested and tortured.

The children actively participated in the discussions and the session was interactive.

Bp. Agnelo Gracias – our chief guest for this event, released a book on ‘Health of the Girl Child’ compiled by Sr. Natty and Sr. Sharon of Health Promotion Trust of the Archdiocese of Bombay. This creation was the brain child of Fr. Rocky Banz.

Next, the High on Life for Boys and Beautiful Women for Girls program was introduced. This talk and video presentation is made in all schools of Mumbai to create an awareness in our children and instill in them values for Life. In spite of the holidays being on, around 300 children attended along with their parents and teachers. The best boys and girls selected by their teachers were awarded certificates by Bp. Agnelo Gracias. Everyone pledged to stand up against violence in any form and take all precautions for their safety. It was a morning well spent and educative too