Tag: religion

#faith

Why Gen Z Is Finding Its Way Back to Faith?

Tanisha Cardozo

For decades, each new generation appeared to move further away from organised religion. Millennials and Gen X came of age during a period marked by increasing secularisation, skepticism toward institutions, and a preference for individual belief over communal practice. Gen Z, however, is beginning to disrupt that long-term trend in unexpected ways.

Multiple surveys across Western countries now indicate that Gen Z shows higher levels of church attendance and religious identification than Millennials and Gen X did at the same age. Many young people are not only attending weekly services but are also actively participating in faith-based communities, particularly within Christianity. This shift is less about inherited tradition and more about conscious choice.

Researchers point to rising anxiety, economic uncertainty, social fragmentation, and digital overload as major factors influencing this return. Gen Z has grown up in an era defined by constant connectivity, global crises, and unstable futures. In this environment, religion offers something increasingly rare: structure, predictability, and moral grounding. Faith communities provide spaces where identity is not curated for an audience, but lived in shared presence.

Churches that have adapted to these realities are seeing the strongest engagement. Those offering mentorship, mental health conversations, peer networks, and opportunities for service are resonating deeply with Gen Z. For many young attendees, the appeal lies not only in belief, but in the sense of belonging and care that comes from being part of an in-person community.

Unlike earlier generations that often rejected organised religion as rigid or irrelevant, Gen Z tends to approach faith pragmatically. Attendance is less about obligation and more about purpose. Religion is being used as a framework for meaning-making, discipline, and resilience in a world that often feels unstable and overwhelming.

Digital exhaustion has also played a role in this shift. After years of living online, many Gen Z individuals are actively seeking spaces that are slower, quieter, and more human. In-person worship, shared rituals, and moments of reflection offer relief from constant performance and comparison. In that sense, religious spaces have become one of the few remaining environments where presence matters more than visibility.

This renewed engagement does not necessarily signal a return to rigid or exclusionary belief systems. Many Gen Z participants favour inclusive, socially conscious faith communities aligned with values such as compassion, service, and justice. Their relationship with religion remains questioning and selective, but deeply intentional.

Gen Z’s return to faith is not a revival of the past, but a reimagining of belief for the present. It reflects a generation searching for stability, meaning, and connection—proof that in times of uncertainty, the pull toward community and purpose remains as strong as ever.

Events in Goa

Human Stories Behind Borders: ‘Displacement’ at Serendipity Arts Festival Explores Migration and Exile

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Migration and displacement, often discussed through numbers and geopolitical debates, take on deeply human dimensions at the Serendipity Arts Festival 2025 through the exhibition Displacement, curated by art historian Rahaab Allana. Open to viewing at The Old PWD Complex in Panaji, the exhibition brings together artists from South Asia and the Gulf region whose works reflect lived experiences of exile, asylum and rupture.

Allana situates the exhibition within the context of recent global migration trends, noting that 2024 witnessed record levels of displacement worldwide. From conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Palestine and Afghanistan to internal displacement within South Asia, the curator connects global crises with local and regional realities. These transitions, shaped by racism, border anxieties and minority-majority debates, form the conceptual backbone of Displacement.

The exhibition foregrounds image-based practices that confront today’s volatile socio-political landscape. While wars, territorial conflicts and ideologies dominate headlines, Allana stresses that it is ultimately human lives that bear the consequences. The works on display insist on a humanist approach, using art as a provocation for dialogue and empathy at a time of increasing polarisation.

Many of the artists featured are themselves living in exile or seeking asylum far from their homelands. Their works speak of both internal and external displacement, addressing themes of severance, surveillance, memory and loss, while also revealing how art becomes a means of survival and community-building. Through creative expression, these artists forge connections and shared spaces even while navigating life in exile.

Among the notable works is that of Afghan artist Hadi Ranaward, whose piece maps Kabul with delicate origami planes and helicopters hovering above the city. The shadows they cast evoke constant scrutiny and surveillance, capturing the psychological reality of living under watch and within contested spaces. Such works invite viewers to reflect not only on territory and power, but on the everyday lives shaped by them.

Trained in art history and photography, Allana’s curatorial practice has long focused on decolonising visual narratives, a sensibility that is evident throughout the exhibition. Rather than closing conversations, Displacement opens them up, encouraging viewers to ask questions and engage with perspectives that are often marginalised.

At its core, Displacement resists simplification. It does not seek easy resolutions but instead insists on complexity, compassion and attentiveness. Within the broader framework of the Serendipity Arts Festival, the exhibition stands as a reminder that behind every migration story is a human life — carrying memory, trauma, hope and the enduring need to belong.

#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.

International

Capt. Venzy Viegas Inspires Goans Abroad at World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait

Tanisha Cardozo

The vibrant Goan community in Kuwait came together in a spirit of unity and pride to celebrate World Goa Day 2025, hosted by the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait. The event showcased Goa’s timeless traditions, music, and cultural diversity, while bringing together Goans from across the region under one banner of shared identity.

Among the special guests was AAP MLA Capt. Venzy Viegas, whose presence added significance to the occasion. During his visit, Capt. Viegas, along with Mr. Carmo Santos, President of the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait, paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Sanjay Muluka, Charge d’ Affairs and Officiating Ambassador at the Embassy of India in Kuwait. The discussion highlighted the invaluable role of the Goan diaspora in preserving Goa’s heritage, promoting its culture, and contributing to the state’s development from abroad.

Addressing a large gathering of Goans, Capt. Venzy Viegas expressed heartfelt admiration for their unwavering connection to their homeland. He said, “It was an absolute pleasure to meet Goans abroad. I request all Goans in Kuwait and across the world — let’s together preserve Goa’s Asmutai and build a Goa of our dreams for our Fudle Pilge Khatir (future generations).”

He lauded the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait for its efforts in keeping the spirit of Goa alive among the diaspora and for uniting Goans on one platform. The event reflected the powerful sense of belonging and pride that binds Goans across borders — a testament to their enduring love for Goa and its cultural essence.

Capt. Viegas also thanked the Goan community in Kuwait for their warmth, hospitality, and dedication to nurturing Goan culture, despite being miles away from their homeland. His message of “One Goa, One People” resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the collective spirit that defines Goans worldwide.

World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait not only celebrated the state’s rich cultural heritage but also strengthened the bonds of community and identity that make Goa truly special — wherever Goans may be.

Special Occasion

All Saints’ Day: A Timeless Celebration of Faith, Memory, and Holiness

Tanisha Cardozo

All Saints’ Day, observed every year on November 1, is one of the most beautiful and ancient celebrations in the Christian calendar. It is a day dedicated to honoring all saints — those whose names are known to the world and those whose quiet holiness remains known only to God. It is a feast of memory, gratitude, and inspiration — reminding believers that sanctity is not reserved for a few extraordinary figures, but is a calling open to everyone.

The origins of All Saints’ Day trace back to the earliest centuries of Christianity. In the beginning, the Church honored martyrs — those who had given their lives for their faith — with individual feast days. As the number of martyrs grew, it became impossible to commemorate each one separately. By the 4th century, communities began to hold a collective feast for “all martyrs.” The Eastern Church first celebrated this feast on the Sunday after Pentecost, a practice still observed in Orthodox Christianity today.

In the Western Church, the tradition evolved under Pope Boniface IV, who in 609 AD consecrated the Roman Pantheon — once a temple to pagan gods — to the Virgin Mary and all martyrs, renaming it Sancta Maria ad Martyres. This symbolic act transformed a monument of ancient Rome into a Christian sanctuary and laid the foundation for All Saints’ Day as we know it. Later, in the 9th century, Pope Gregory IV established November 1 as the official date for the celebration across the Western Church. The feast was extended beyond martyrs to include all saints, recognizing not only those canonized but every soul who lived a life of holiness.

The day also has deep ties to All Hallows’ Eve — now widely known as Halloween — which serves as the vigil of the feast. “Hallow” means “holy,” and “All Hallows’ Eve” literally means “the evening before All Saints’ Day.” The following day, November 2, is All Souls’ Day, dedicated to praying for the faithful departed who have not yet reached heaven. Together, these observances create a profound trilogy of remembrance — celebrating the saints, praying for souls, and reflecting on our shared spiritual journey.

Throughout history, All Saints’ Day has taken on rich cultural expressions around the world. In France, it is known as La Toussaint and marked as a public holiday, with families visiting cemeteries to lay chrysanthemums on graves. In Spain, people attend Mass and bring flowers to cemeteries, blending faith with family tradition. In the Philippines, the celebration becomes a national reunion as families gather at cemeteries, lighting candles, sharing meals, and remembering loved ones through laughter and prayer. Across Latin America, the customs intertwine with Día de los Santos and Día de los Muertos, blending Catholic devotion with indigenous remembrance rituals.

For many, All Saints’ Day is not only about the saints of the past but also about the possibility of holiness in the present. It serves as a reminder that sanctity can be found in the everyday — in acts of kindness, forgiveness, courage, and love. The saints, in their diversity of backgrounds and experiences, show that there is no single path to holiness. Some were scholars and mystics; others were farmers, mothers, laborers, and children. Each, in their own way, answered the call to live a life of truth and compassion.

In churches around the world, the liturgical color of white symbolizes joy, purity, and the triumph of life over death. Bells ring, hymns echo, and prayers rise for all those who have gone before us in faith. The day invites every believer to reflect on their own life and purpose — to ask not only who the saints were, but who we might yet become.

As evening falls on All Saints’ Day, candles often flicker on graves and altars, their light soft but steady, symbolizing hope that endures beyond the limits of time. Each flame carries the memory of someone who lived with faith and love, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, light persists.

In honoring the saints, we celebrate not only their glory but the grace that flows through every human heart willing to choose goodness. All Saints’ Day calls us to see holiness not as perfection, but as presence — the presence of love that transforms the world, one act at a time.