Missa do Parto at “Liceu”: Father Magalhães challenges us to accept the weaknesses of others

Moments of communion, welcome and light were experienced this morning, in the celebration of the traditional Birth Mass, at Escola Secundária Jaime Moniz, which was also attended by the Regional Secretary of Education, Science and Technology, Jorge Carvalho. 

Animated by a choir made up of teachers and students, the tribute to Virgem do Parto took place at “Liceu”, also enriched by the presence of retired teachers and employees, in an intergenerational meeting that is always very rich. There were very emotional moments, both with the beautiful Christmas carols performed, in an excellent way, by the choir, and, above all, with the calls for reflection from the priest who celebrated the Eucharist, with a special focus on the importance of welcoming others, being living presence of Jesus, of understanding the weaknesses because Jesus was born in a poor place and, also, of knowing how to accept the weaknesses of others. 

The Dehonian priest, Jorge Magalhães, celebrated the Eucharistie. Briefly but incisively, he looked at the Altar table and remembered that this same table brings together all those who are hungry and in need of love. “Alone we are incapable of understanding the complexity of reality.” This resulted in the first note of reflection: “We are not enough on our own. Therefore, you have to reflect: what is your life for? Are you a source of encouragement and strength for others? Let us learn from Jesus what to do with our lives. We can truly be a presence of Jesus for others.” 

Looking out over Funchal, the priest shared the unanimous opinion of the city's unique beauty, full of light and color, but he also wanted to celebrate another truth: “God is born in a poor place; Therefore, at Christmas, we celebrate vulnerabilities, weakness. Christmas is strength and brightness but it also serves to learn not to be scandalized by the fragility of others, to be the presence of Jesus for others”. 

The president of the Executive Council praised Father Jorge Magalhães' homily and highlighted the word “welcome” so often pronounced in the Eucharist. He recalled that this word has been the School’s motto: “ESJM continues to welcome everyone”. For this reason, Ana Isabel Freitas reiterated her gratitude to everyone, also applauding the work of the choir of young people and teachers from the School who brightened the liturgical celebration. 

The Regional Secretary for Education, Science and Technology also stated that “School is the appropriate space to overcome these weaknesses” that Father Jorge Magalhães alluded to in his homily. A journey typical of “a learning community”, highlighted Jorge Carvalho, of which we are all part. 

After the celebration, there was still room for the usual gathering in the School canteen with the usual Christmas delicacies.