As part of their Lenten mission, the Social Apostolate Cell and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) of St. Francis Xavier Church, Duler, organized a two-day faith-sharing visit to Ajara Parish – Rosary Church and six of its mission stations. This enriching experience aimed to strengthen bonds between the two parishes through spiritual interaction and fellowship.
The team visited six mission stations: Halewadi, Salgao, Khanapur, Dongarmalla, Gavase, and Shelop, connecting with over 75 families who shared their experiences of celebrating Mass, other Sacraments, Christmas, Parish feasts, the Lenten season, and Easter with deep faith and community spirit.
Ajara Parish, guided by Parish Priest Fr. Melwin Pais and supported by 2 Assistant Parish Priests and the Sisters of Holy Family Convent, is a well-established faith center. The parish team celebrates Mass every Sunday in 2 of the Chapels in the Parish and ensures that each of the 14 Mission stations receives one Mass in a home at least once or twice every month.
Despite limited transportation options, the community remains committed to attending key liturgical celebrations such as Christmas, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil. The visit highlighted the resilience and devotion of these communities, showing that while they may lack material comforts, they are rich in faith, joy, and active participation.
This visit served as a profound reminder that true spiritual wealth lies in a heart full of faith. The Social Apostolate Cell and SSVP of St. Francis Xavier Church, Duler, are grateful for this enriching experience and look forward to continuing their spiritual journey with the people of Ajara Parish and its mission stations.
The spirit of Goa came alive on 5th April 2025 at the Goa College of Home Science with the successful debut of the Khoshi Lokanchem Fest – the Happy People’s Festival – curated by Festakar Marius Fernandes and hosted by Principal Dr. Mahesh Pai. This marked Festakar’s 99th inclusive festival, celebrating Goa’s vibrant heritage, culture, food, music, and people.
The day began with the symbolic Festakar Pasoi – a special knowledge-sharing walk around the college’s loom and textile laboratory, led by Marius Fernandes and Principal Dr. Pai. Dignitaries including Miguel Braganza, Alexyz, Avelino D’sa, Nicole Suares, Willy Goes, Sheryl Afonso, Louella Dias, and Fatima Bertha Fernandes joined in the ceremonial lamp lighting. Principal Dr. Pai officially opened the festival with a warm welcome, a presentation of a Kunbi shawl and a plant to Festakar.
Book Launch – “Across Three Continents: Legacy of Antonetta Fernandes”
The festival also witnessed the heartfelt launch of Across Three Continents: Legacy of Antonetta Fernandes, a powerful debut by Nicole Suares, published by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas. Noted writer Willy Goes emphasized the importance of preserving family legacies through documentation.
Culture in Conversation & Performance
A midday highlight was the Ghumot Gozalli, a spirited discussion between Marius Fernandes and journalist Nicole Suares on the future of the Ghumot – Goa’s state instrument. In a festive moment, Dr. Pai cut a Ghumot-shaped cake while the Sunshine Band performed the traditional Konkani birthday song.
Making their debut were the 5G – Global Goan Girls’ Ghumot Group with a vibrant performance of Goa Beach by Kuljeet Bhamra, choreographed by Ragwi Raju Naik.
Goan Flavours, Health and Community Wellness
In the Bolcãocheo Gozalli sessions, Professor Sheryl Afonso led insightful talks with Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas on women’s health and nutrition, followed by a session with Suman Goswami on sugar-free Goan treats like sweet potato neureos and Ragi Tizaan.
A sugar-free food workshop was complemented by a bustling bazaar with over 20 stalls offering local sweets, plants, seasonal produce, and crafts.
Workshops, Inclusion & Artistic Showcases
Counsellor Louella Dias introduced a student flash mob, followed by impactful workshops on accessibility, inclusion, and diversity by Prakash Kamat. A traditional Diuli dance and a Kunbi saree draping demonstration by Dr. Charlotte Facho Lourenco, featuring Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas as the model, showcased Goa’s living textile heritage.
In a later Bolcãocheo Gozalli, Dr. Pai and Prakash Kamat discussed building an inclusive future for Goa.
The staff of the college—teaching and non-teaching—took the stage with Goenchim Noketram, choreographed by Louella Dias. The much-loved Kottieacho Nach, choreographed by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas and conceptualized by Festakar Marius, brought the community together in a joyous cultural anthem.
Live music by Dr. Glenis Mendonca (guitar) and Renald Mendonca (violin) filled the air with beloved Konkani melodies, followed by a spirited closing performance by the Sunshine Band.
In her vote of thanks, Professor Sheryl Afonso acknowledged all contributors and participants. Festakar Marius Fernandes reflected, “Khoshi Lokanchem Fest brought together diverse voices, traditions and talents, building a people-powered platform where Goa’s legacy meets contemporary relevance.”
Looking Ahead – The 100th Festival!
The grand milestone – the 100th Fest – will take place on 12th April 2025 at the Goa College of Agriculture, Old Goa with the HONEY Fest, promising to inspire future generations through joy, collaboration, and cultural pride.
Rajeshri Creations is thrilled to announce its latest endeavor, Triveni, a unique initiative that seeks to connect hearts through the universal language of art. This exciting project promises to bring people together, fostering a sense of community and understanding through the shared experience of creativity.
What is Triveni?
Triveni, which means “confluence of three rivers” in Sanskrit, represents the coming together of art, culture, and community. This initiative aims to provide a platform for artists, art enthusiasts, and individuals from all walks of life to connect, share, and learn from each other.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred time for Muslims around the world. It’s a period of spiritual reflection, fasting, prayer, and community. As Ramadan begins, people come together to share wishes, messages, and blessings with loved ones.
Ramadan Mubarak Wishes and Messages
Here are some heartfelt wishes and messages to share with family and friends:
“May this Ramadan bring you peace, prosperity, and blessings.”
“Wishing you a month filled with spiritual growth and joy.”
“May your fasts be easy and your prayers be answered.”
“Ramadan Kareem! May your home be filled with light and happiness.”
“Ramadan is the month whose beginning is mercy, whose middle is forgiveness, and whose end is freedom from fire.”
“Fasting is a shield; it will protect you from the hellfire and prevent you from sins.”
Ramadan WhatsApp Status and Facebook Posts
Here are some ideas for your WhatsApp status and Facebook posts:
“Embarking on a spiritual journey this Ramadan. May it bring peace and enlightenment.”
“Fasting not just from food, but from negativity. Embracing positivity this Ramadan.”
“May the spirit of Ramadan illuminate our hearts and homes.”
As Ramadan begins, let’s come together to share love, kindness, and blessings. May this sacred month bring us closer to our faith, our families, and our communities. Ramadan Mubarak!
As the world gears up to celebrate Valentine’s Day, we can’t help but feel a sense of unease. The pressure to be in a romantic relationship, the overwhelming commercialization of love, and the constant bombardment of sappy advertisements can be overwhelming. But what about those who don’t fit the traditional mold of Valentine’s Day celebrations? What about the singles, the solo travelers, and the self-love advocates?
In this article, we’ll explore the idea of rethinking Valentine’s Day, shifting the focus from romantic love to a more inclusive celebration of love in all its forms.
For many singles, Valentine’s Day is just another day. They wake up, go about their routine, and try to avoid the constant reminders of love and romance. But what if we told you that you don’t have to feel left out? What if we encouraged you to celebrate your own love story, even if it doesn’t fit the traditional mold?
Redefining Love
Love comes in many forms, and it’s time we start acknowledging that. Whether it’s the love you have for your family, your friends, or yourself, it’s all worthy of celebration. So, this Valentine’s Day, take some time to reflect on the love in your life. Write a gratitude journal, make a handmade gift for a loved one, or simply take a moment to appreciate the beauty of self-love.
A Valentine’s Day Message
To all the singles, solo travelers, and self-love advocates out there, we see you. We hear you. And we want you to know that you are worthy of love and celebration, regardless of your relationship status.
So, this Valentine’s Day, don’t feel pressured to conform to societal norms. Instead, take the time to celebrate your own unique love story. Treat yourself to a solo dinner date, take a relaxing bath, or simply enjoy a quiet night in with a good book.
Remember, love is not just about romantic relationships. It’s about the love you have for yourself, your community, and the world around you. So, let’s rethink Valentine’s Day and make it a celebration of love in all its forms.
Share Your Love Story
We want to hear from you! Share your unique love story with us, whether it’s a romantic relationship, a self-love journey, or a celebration of friendship and community. Use the hashtag #RethinkValentinesDay and let’s start a conversation about what love means to you.
Happy Valentine’s Day, and remember to always celebrate the love that matters most – the love you have for yourself.
