Tag: Pilar

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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.

EduConnect

Fr. Agnel High School: Nurturing Young Minds for a Brighter Future

allycaralgoa

Located in the picturesque town of Pilar, Goa, Fr. Agnel High School has been a beacon of excellence in education since its founding in 1953 by the Society of Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier. As a Catholic institution, the school is committed to providing a well-rounded education that fosters intellectual, physical, and spiritual growth in its students.

With a rich history spanning over seven decades, Fr. Agnel High School has established itself as a premier educational institution in Goa. The school’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its impressive results, with 100 percent pass percentage in board exams for two consecutive years in the last three years.

The school’s approach to education goes beyond academics. Fr. Agnel High School recognizes the importance of extracurricular activities in shaping the overall personality of its students. The school has excelled in various sports, including boxing, football, and hockey, with its students winning several championships and tournaments.

Some notable achievements include:

  • All Goa Under 14 Boxing Championship: Fr. Agnel High School emerged as the champions in this prestigious tournament.
  • Meccabeus Rodrigues Memorial Under 13 Football: The school’s football team showcased their skills and won the championship.
  • All Goa 6-a-side Under 14 Hockey: Fr. Agnel High School demonstrated their prowess in hockey, winning the tournament.
  • State Runners-up: The school’s teams excelled in various state-level tournaments, including Under 17 Football, Under 17 Tug of War, and Under 15 Sub Junior Nehru Hockey.

Fr. Agnel High School also encourages its students to participate in cultural and intellectual activities, such as:

  • Inter-school Tiatr Competition: Students showcased their acting and performance skills in this popular Goan art form.
  • Quiz Competitions: Students demonstrated their knowledge and quick thinking in various quiz competitions.
  • Talent Search Exams: The school’s students participated in talent search exams, showcasing their academic prowess.

The school’s philosophy is built around four core values:

  • Discipline: Fr. Agnel High School emphasizes the importance of discipline in shaping the character of its students.
  • Value Education: The school recognizes the importance of value education in helping students develop a strong moral compass.
  • Academic Excellence: The school strives for academic excellence, providing students with a strong foundation for future success.
  • Hard Work: Fr. Agnel High School encourages its students to work hard and persevere in the face of challenges.

Fr. Agnel High School is a testament to the power of education in shaping young minds. With its commitment to academic excellence, holistic development, and value-based education, the school is preparing its students to face the challenges of the world with confidence and courage. As the school continues to nurture young minds, it remains a beacon of hope for a brighter future.