13 Seminarians Ordained as Deacons at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, Goa

Rachol, Goa, April 12, 2025: Thirteen seminarians from the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol in Goa were ordained as deacons on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the seminary church. His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, presided over the Mass and liturgical rites of ordination. The Mass was concelebrated by Rev. Msgr. Andrew D’Mello, Administrator of the Diocese of Sindhudurg, along with several priests from the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, the Diocese of Karwar, and the Diocese of Sindhudurg.

The theme of the liturgy was “Deva-Utrachea Zanvayen ani Seve-Chakreche Yatrent Ami Dev-Peleache Munniari” (By the Light of God's Word and the Journey of Service, We are Called to be Witnesses of Christ).

In his homily, Cardinal Ferrao reflected on the missionary zeal of St. Francis Xavier and emphasised the importance of the newly ordained deacons embodying the servant leadership of Jesus Christ in their ministries.

Of the 13 newly ordained deacons, 12 are from Goa and will serve the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, while one, Sunil Almeida from Karwar, will serve the Diocese of Sindhudurg.

Following the ordination, Deacon Nion Colaco delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks on behalf of the newly ordained deacons, expressing profound gratitude to God and to all those who supported them throughout their priestly formation.

A brief felicitation programme was later held in the seminary auditorium to honour the new deacons. The event included a cake-cutting ceremony, a toast raised by seminarian Abraham Fernandes, a congratulatory address by Rev. Fr. Donato Rodrigues, Rector of Rachol Seminary, and a light-hearted game organised for the deacons. The celebrations concluded with a festive lunch, marking the joyous occasion.

By Sem. Abraham Fernandes