Category: #faith

#faith

Eight New Priests Ordained for Archdiocese of Goa and Daman

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In a joyous celebration at Se Cathedral, Old Goa, eight deacons were ordained as priests for the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman on April 30, 2024. The ordination ceremony, attended by over 100 priests and lay faithful, marked a significant milestone in the lives of these dedicated individuals.

The Newly Ordained Priests
The eight deacons who received their priestly ordination are:

  1. Fr. Slater Alemao from Chinchinim
  2. Fr. Valfern Barbosa from Raia
  3. Fr. Malcolm Palmer Colaco from Navelim
  4. Fr. Sheldon Michael D’Souza from Salvador do Mundo
  5. Fr. Benny Fernandes from Siroda
  6. Fr. Jason Keith Fernandes from Dona Paula (Caranzalem)
  7. Fr. Jason Cajetan Travasso from Nagoa, Bardez
  8. Fr. Frazer Xavier Vaz from Vasco da Gama


Each of the newly ordained priests has been assigned to a specific parish, where they will serve as Assistant to the Parish Priest. Their assignments include:

  • Fr. Slater Alemao – St. Joseph Church, Sao Jose de Areal
  • Fr. Valfern Barbosa – St. Joseph Church, Usgao
  • Fr. Malcolm Palmer Colaco – St. John the Baptist Church, Benaulim
  • Fr. Sheldon Michael D’Souza – Rosary Church, Fatorda
  • Fr. Benny Fernandes – St. Anne’s Church, Parra
  • Fr. Jason Keith Fernandes – Se Cathedral Church, Old Goa
  • Fr. Jason Cajetan Travasso – Our Lady of Gloria Church, Varca
  • Fr. Frazer Xavier Vaz – Our Lady of Socorro Church, Carmona


During the ordination ceremony, Auxiliary Bishop Simiao Fernandes delivered a heartfelt homily, emphasizing the role of a good shepherd. He encouraged the newly ordained priests to be signs of hope, giving hope to the needy, the dejected, and those living on the peripheries. Bishop Simiao also urged the priests to treasure their priesthood, be men of prayer, and build unity among the people.


Bishop Simiao congratulated the newly ordained priests in the name of Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao and conveyed his best wishes and blessings to them. The ordination ceremony concluded with a sense of joy and celebration, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of these eight dedicated individuals.


The ordination of eight new priests for the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman is a significant event that strengthens the Church’s presence in the region. As these priests embark on their new roles, they will undoubtedly bring hope, love, and service to their communities. We wish them all the best in their ministry and pray for their continued growth and dedication to their vocation.

#faith

Mapusa Gears Up for Annual Milagres Feast on May 5

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The town of Mapusa is abuzz with excitement as it prepares for the annual Milagres feast, a significant event in Goa’s cultural and religious calendar. The feast, also known as the Feast of Our Lady of Miracles, will be held on May 5 at St Jerome Church and is expected to attract thousands of devotees from across the state.


The nine-day Novenas preceding the feast began on April 26 and will culminate with vespers on May 4. On the feast day itself, several Masses will be held, starting at 5:30 am, followed by services at 4:00 pm and 5:15 pm. The Novenas during the weekdays will feature Masses at 6:30 am, 8 am (Novena), and 6 pm (Novena and Salve), while Sundays will have additional Masses at 6:30 am, 7:45 am (Novena), 9 am (English), and 6 pm (Novena and Salve).


To complement the religious festivities, the church authorities have organized a five-day entertainment extravaganza, Milagres Fiesta 2025, within the church compound. The event will feature three Konkani dramas on different days, along with various other programs, including games and housie, starting from the feast day.


The Milagres feast traditionally heralds a week-long fair along the thoroughfare leading to the church, adding to the festive atmosphere and attracting visitors from across the region. As the town prepares for this significant event, devotees and visitors alike can look forward to a celebration of faith, tradition, and community.

#faith

Goan Cardinals and Priests Pay Tribute to Pope Francis at Historic Funeral Mass

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In a poignant display of respect and solidarity, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao and a number of Goan priests concelebrated the Funeral Mass of Pope Francis in the Vatican on Saturday. This solemn ceremony brought together an estimated 220 cardinals, 750 bishops, and over 4,000 priests from around the world to bid farewell to the beloved pontiff.


The Funeral Mass was a testament to the diversity and unity of the global Catholic community. Cardinal Ferrao, along with other Goan priests, played a significant role in the ceremony, adding to the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions represented.


Canon Norbert Fernandes, the first Goan-origin canon at the Westminster Cathedral, described the funeral as “a mystical experience of the world coming to Rome.” He emphasized the sense of unity and shared hope that permeated the ceremony.

Fr. Alfi D’Cruz, who is pursuing his licentiate in Church Communication, shared his emotional experience of concelebrating the Mass. He recalled the impact of Pope Francis’ smile and gesture during their last meeting, which continues to motivate him in his vocation.
The Goan priests who concelebrated the Mass reflected on Pope Francis’ legacy of hope and service. They expressed their desire for the Church to continue his work, particularly in promoting compassion, understanding, and support for those in need.


The participation of Goan cardinals and priests in the Funeral Mass of Pope Francis serves as a reminder of the global nature of the Catholic Church. It highlights the shared commitment to faith, service, and community that transcends geographical boundaries. As the Church looks to the future, it does so with the memory of Pope Francis’ dedication to spreading hope and joy to all corners of the world.

#faith, Politics

Goa Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza Represents India at Pope Francis’ State Funeral at Vatican

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Joshua De Souza, Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, is part of a high-level delegation led by President Droupadi Murmu to attend Pope Francis’ state funeral in Vatican City. The event brings together global leaders to pay respects to the late Pope, who passed away on April 21 at 88.

The Delegation is also accompanied by Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs and George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.


President Murmu and the delegation’s visit highlights strong India-Vatican diplomatic ties. She’ll represent India, offering condolences on behalf of the government and people, reflecting respect for Pope Francis’ contributions to global peace, interfaith dialogue, and social justice.


Pope Francis will be remembered for his compassion, humility, and spiritual courage, inspiring millions worldwide with his message of love, peace, and unity. The state funeral testifies to his lasting impact.

As Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza participates, he embodies diplomacy and cultural exchange, fostering stronger India-international community relations.

#faith

Mass in Suffrage of Pope Francis to be Held in Goa

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The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman will hold a Mass in suffrage of the late Pope Francis on Thursday, April 24, at the Cathedral Church in Old Goa. The service, presided over by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, will bring together priests, religious, and lay faithful to offer prayers for the beloved Pontiff.

Details of the Mass

  • Date: Thursday, April 24
  • Location: Cathedral Church, Old Goa
  • Presider: His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao

A Mark of Respect
As a sign of respect to the late Pope Francis, the offices at the Bishop’s House will remain closed on Saturday, April 26, the day of the funeral. This gesture reflects the deep admiration and reverence for the Pontiff’s legacy and contributions to the Catholic Church.

Call to Prayer
The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman invites all members of the faithful to join in this special Mass, offering prayers for the soul of Pope Francis. This gathering will serve as an opportunity for the community to come together and pay tribute to the beloved Pontiff’s life and ministry.