Advent Recollection for Catechists was Organised by Archdiocese of Goa and Daman

Goa, December 14, 2025:

The Diocesan Catechetical Centre of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman organised a one-day Advent Recollection for catechists on December 14 across the Archdiocese. Held simultaneously in all 19 deaneries, the recollection brought together catechists from 204 catechetical units across parishes and chapels. A total of 2,172 catechists participated in the annual spiritual programme centred on the theme “Hope is yet to Be Born.”

In each deanery, resource persons led two reflections on “The Preparation of Mother Mary to Receive Jesus” and “Preparing Our Mangers to Receive Jesus.” Initiated in 2003 during the tenure of Fr Alfred Vaz as Director of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, the recollection encourages catechists to pause, pray, renew themselves spiritually, and recommit to their ministry during Advent.

Although celebrated at different venues, the recollection took place on the same day to express unity among catechists across the Archdiocese. Inspired by the practices of the early Christian communities, the programme included the breaking of the Word through reflections, followed by the Eucharistic celebration and a Christmas fellowship.

Fr. Marcelino Rodrigues, Director of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, said catechists eagerly anticipate the annual recollection as it helps them prepare spiritually for Christmas. He added that celebrating together strengthens the sense of family and bonding within each deanery. Representatives of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, including Fr. Rodrigues, visited all the deaneries and conveyed Christmas messages.

Nelia Pereira, a catechist from Mother of God Church who participated at Our Lady of the Sick Church, Quelossim, described the recollection as a much-needed spiritual pause amid the busyness of Advent. Reflecting on Mary and Joseph’s trust amid fear and sacrifice, she said the experience helped her seek forgiveness, renew her faith, and rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. “It reminded me that Christmas is about welcoming Jesus into my heart with humility and faith,” she said.

Reflecting on the recollection, Sr. Connie Gomes MSP expressed gratitude for her vocation and a renewed sense of mission. A member of the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Pilar and a catechist at Our Lady of Piety Chapel, Uguem–Sanguem, she participated in the recollection at Our Lady of Piety Church, Collem. Inspired by the Blessed Virgin Mary’s response to God’s call, she said the day helped her place Jesus at the centre of her life and renew her commitment to joyfully proclaim Him, especially to the children she teaches. “It helped me grow in humility and renew my call to be a joyful missionary,” she said.

Josma Pereira, a catechist from Se Cathedral, Old Goa, who participated at St Stephen’s Church, Santo Estevam, described the day as calming and faith-renewing. Through prayer, silence, adoration and the Eucharist, she said the recollection helped her move beyond external preparations and prepare her heart spiritually for Christmas. “It helped me prepare for Christmas with greater faith and inner peace,” she shared.

At Nossa Senhora de Belem Church, Chandor, Maria D’Costa, a catechist from St. Francis Xavier Church, Macasana, said the recollection offered a grace-filled pause that deepened her connection with God through silence and prayer. “It helped me make space for silence and renew my trust in God’s promises,” she said.

Sharing his experience at St. Anne’s Church, Olaulim, Ronaldo Victoria, a catechist from St. Thomas Church, Aldona, described the day as deeply enriching, marked by reflections, a Holy Hour, the Eucharistic celebration and fellowship. “In prayer and silence, I felt renewed and inspired to prepare my heart sincerely for Christ,” he said.

Advent Recollection for Catechists was Organised by Archdiocese of Goa and Daman

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