Category: #faith

#faith

GTDC to Host World-Famous Dance Drama ‘RAM’ on 29th & 30th November in Goa

allycaralgoa

In a landmark cultural initiative, the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has announced that Goa will host the world-famous dance drama RAM, one of India’s most celebrated and iconic stage productions. The performances will be held on 29th November at Ravindra Bhavan, Baina Vasco, and on 30th November 2025 at Kala Academy, Panjim.

GTDC Chairman Shri Kedar J. Naik expressed pride in bringing the revered production to Goa, stating, “Goa is privileged to host RAM, a production that has touched countless lives across generations. Our focus is to bring distinguished cultural experiences to our people and enrich our artistic and social fabric.”

GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar added, “Hosting a production of this scale reaffirms our commitment to promoting diverse and meaningful cultural engagements. Goa Tourism is proud to support initiatives that celebrate India’s cultural legacy.”

The production, staged by Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra—one of India’s premier cultural institutions—has been witnessed by millions worldwide and is admired for its powerful storytelling, refined choreography, and artistic excellence. RAM stands as one of the most iconic interpretations of India’s historic epic tradition.

This initiative aligns with Goa’s ongoing commitment to elevating its cultural landscape. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa continues to promote meaningful artistic exchanges and world-class cultural experiences.

Adding to this culturally significant moment, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Goa on 28th November to unveil a magnificent 77-foot statue of Lord Ram at the Shree Samsthan Gokarna Partagali Jeevottam Mutt, Canacona. GTDC’s staging of RAM complements this landmark event, reinforcing Goa’s readiness to showcase its cultural depth and hospitality.

The event is supported by Ravindra Bhavan Vasco and Kala Academy Panaji, both of which have extended their venues for the performances, ensuring accessibility for audiences across Goa.

Entry will be provided through entry bands on a first-come, first-served basis, making the event open and accessible to all.

GTDC and the Department of Tourism invite the people of Goa to witness RAM, a timeless cultural masterpiece that celebrates India’s heritage through breathtaking artistry.

For more information, contact: 9823679702 & 7972922490

#faith

98th Death Anniversary of Venerable Agnelo Draws Thousands to Pilar

Tanisha Cardozo

The 98th Death Anniversary of Venerable Agnelo de Souza drew thousands of faithful to the serene and historic hillock of Pilar, where the saintly priest of the Society of Pilar continues to inspire countless devotees. The day, revered as Venerable Agnelo’s Day, became a spiritual homecoming for pilgrims from Goa and beyond who gathered in prayer, gratitude, and devotion to honour a priest whose life of holiness still echoes deeply through generations. The solemn Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Bishop Dominic Savio Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay, and concelebrated by Bishop Alex Dias, Bishop Emeritus of Port Blair, along with several priests of the Society of Pilar including Fr Nazareth Fernandes, SFX, Superior General, Fr Stevan D’Souza, Vicar General, Fr Joaquim Rebelo, Provincial Superior of the Goa Province, Fr Hilary Fernandes from the Vice Postulation office, and Fr Joseph Fernandes, SFX, Central Delegate Superior.

In his homily, Bishop Dominic Savio Fernandes reflected on the theme “Ven. Agnelo Inspires Us to Be Pilgrims of Hope,” inviting the faithful to radiate the same holiness that defined Venerable Agnelo’s life. He expressed deep joy at celebrating the memory of a priest of “extraordinary holiness from our own soil,” reminding the congregation that Venerable Agnelo’s life still speaks “quietly, powerfully and beautifully.” He emphasized that the priest’s simplicity, humility, and unwavering hope offer every believer a model for Christian living. The Bishop highlighted how Venerable Agnelo lived in closeness to the poor, the sick, and the suffering, with a deep belief that endurance and suffering offered to God bear fruit in holiness. His fragile body, he said, held a remarkably strong hope rooted in devotion to the Blessed Sacrament—a hope that was alive, active, and transformative. Calling him a “pilgrim of hope,” Bishop Fernandes reminded the faithful that Venerable Agnelo walked with the suffering and helped lift the fallen, urging everyone to radiate holiness in their own surroundings.

Fr John Bennett, SFX, animated the liturgy, while Fr Hilary Fernandes served as commentator, and the choir, led by Fr Elvis Fernandes, SFX, enriched the celebration with sacred music. At the conclusion of the Mass, Fr Nazareth Fernandes thanked all present and encouraged the faithful to continue praying fervently for the canonization of Venerable Agnelo, especially as submitted miracles are currently under examination by Vatican doctors. Fr Joseph Anthony Fernandes, SFX, also expressed deep gratitude to all who contributed to the meticulous organization of the feast. The celebration also included the distribution of prizes for a poetry competition centered on the life of Venerable Agnelo, in the presence of dignitaries including Adv. Carlos Ferreira, MLA of Aldona, and Viresh Borkar, MLA of St. Andre.

Throughout the day, several Masses were offered by priests of the Society of Pilar, including Fr Rex Fernandes, SFX, Fr Lyndon Rodrigues, SFX, Fr Milton Rodrigues, SFX, Fr George Nandiyala, SFX, Fr Ligorino D’Costa, Fr Alex Fernandes, SFX, and Fr Norman Almeida, SFX. In the days leading up to the feast, the Novena drew large gatherings with Masses celebrated in multiple languages and special intentions. A dedicated Mass for the sick offered comfort and spiritual healing, while a night vigil united the faithful in fervent prayer for the canonization of Venerable Agnelo, whose holy and humble life continues to inspire thousands.

#faith

Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa Closed for Visitors on November 8

Tanisha Cardozo

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of Goa’s most iconic landmarks, will remain closed to tourists and visitors on Saturday, November 8, 2025, due to a special religious service. While the 6 am and 7 am Konkani Masses will continue as usual, the 8 am English Mass has been cancelled to accommodate the special service scheduled at 10:30 am exclusively for invited attendees.

This temporary closure is aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the religious program and providing a serene environment for attendees. Visitors planning to explore the Basilica on this day are advised to make alternate arrangements.

Furthermore, tourists and devotees are urged to exercise caution from November 10 to 23, 2025, as preparations will be underway for the Novena and the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, one of the most significant religious celebrations in the region. These preparations include logistical arrangements, crowd management, and special event setups that may temporarily affect regular visitor access.

Fr. Patricio Fernandes SJ, the Rector of the Basilica, emphasized the importance of observing these temporary restrictions to maintain the sanctity of the religious events and ensure the safety of all visitors.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, recognized for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, continues to attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists annually. Visitors planning to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site are encouraged to check the schedule in advance and plan their visit around these special events to avoid inconvenience.

#faith

Commemoration of the 98th Death Anniversary of Venerable Agnelo de Souza at Pilar

Tanisha Cardozo

The 98th Death Anniversary of Venerable Agnelo de Souza will be solemnly celebrated at Pilar, Goa, on 20th November 2025, under the theme “Venerable Agnelo inspires us to be pilgrims of Hope.” The solemn Mass at 9:30 a.m. will be presided over by Rt. Rev. Dominic Savio Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay. Thousands of devotees are expected to gather at the Pilar hillock to offer prayers and thanksgiving for the saintly priest whose life continues to inspire the faithful.

The novenas in preparation for the feast will be held from 11th to 19th November, with each day dedicated to a special intention — from peace in the world and care for migrants, to prayers for youth, families, the environment, and the sick. The novena Mass timings will be held throughout the day, allowing pilgrims to participate in prayer and reflection. On 14th November, a special Night Vigil will take place from 9:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., offering a moment of deep spiritual communion and adoration. Masses will be celebrated in different languages to allow wider participation, including Tamil, Hindi, and Malayalam, along with a special Mass for the sick and one for the Spiritual Brothers and Sisters.

Each Mass will be followed by a novena prayer and prayers over the sick, with priests available for confessions and counselling. To reach devotees beyond Goa, all celebrations will be live-streamed on the YouTube channel Society of Pilar India and telecasted across major Goan television networks including CCR TV, Prime TV, Prudent TV, Goa365, RDX TV, Goa9 TV, and others.

As in past years, traffic management arrangements will be in place for the safety and convenience of pilgrims. Vehicles will enter Pilar Hillock via the Neura road and exit through the regular route, with parking arranged behind the Pilar Seminary. Shuttle services will be available for pilgrims commuting by bus.

Venerable Agnelo de Souza, born on 21 January 1869 in Anjuna, Goa, was a devoted priest of the Society of Pilar known for his deep humility, spiritual fervor, and missionary zeal. He spent his life preaching missions and retreats across Goa, touching countless lives with his holiness and compassion. He passed away at dawn on 20 November 1927, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service. His cause for canonization is currently under process in Rome, and this annual commemoration continues to draw thousands of faithful praying for his beatification and canonization.

#faith

98th Death Anniversary of Ven. Agnelo: Pilgrim of Hope

Tanisha Cardozo

The 98th death anniversary of Ven. Agnelo will be solemnly commemorated at Pilar, Goa, from 11th to 20th November 2025. Ven. Agnelo, a beacon of faith and hope, continues to inspire pilgrims from across India and abroad.

This year’s theme, “Ven. Agnelo inspires us to be pilgrims of Hope,” reflects the spirit of devotion and service that marked his life and ministry.

Daily Masses will be celebrated in the morning at 5:30, 6:45, 8:00, 9:15, and 10:30, and in the evening at 4:00, 5:15, and 6:15. The solemn Mass on 20th November at 9:30 AM will be presided over by His Excellency Dominic Savio Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay.

The novena, held from 11th to 19th November, will be dedicated each day to special intentions such as peace in the world, migrants and refugees, youth, children, priests and religious, families, the environment, the sick, and missionaries.

Highlights of the commemoration include a Night Vigil on 14th November from 9:30 PM to 5:00 AM, multilingual Masses on 16th November in Tamil, Hindi, and Malayalam, and a Mass for the sick on 18th November at 10:30 AM. Spiritual gatherings, confessions, counseling, and a campaign of prayers for Ven. Agnelo’s canonization will also be part of the observances.

Every Mass will be followed by novena prayers and blessings over the sick. The event draws thousands of devotees each year, a testimony to Ven. Agnelo’s enduring influence as a man of deep faith, humility, and service. His legacy continues to guide all who visit Pilar to live as true pilgrims of hope.

Watch the Mass on Allycaral at 9:15 AM.