Archdiocese of Goa and Daman Celebrates Jubilee of the Social Apostolate

Goa, September 7, 2025 – The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman marked the Jubilee of the Social Apostolate with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, Old Goa. Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, presided over the celebration, which took place on September 7.

The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by Fr. Henry Falcão, Director of the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre and Episcopal Vicar for the Central Zone; Fr. Maverick Fernandes, Director of Caritas Goa; Fr. Savio Fernandes, Executive Secretary of the Council for Social Justice and Peace; Fr. Joaquim Rebelo SFX, Provincial Superior of the Goa Province of the Society of Pilar; Fr. Walter D’Souza; and Fr. George Nandiyala SFX.

Preaching on the theme “Upholding Human Dignity: Let Us Become Apostles of Hope in Society”, Cardinal Ferrão urged the faithful to remain rooted in Christ and to carry forward the mission of promoting human dignity.

“As Jesus was caring, joyful in service, and compassionate towards others, so too, as true disciples of Christ, we must show care for the needy, serve joyfully, and be compassionate, especially towards those who wrong us,” said the Cardinal, who also serves as President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) and the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI).

Referring to the canonisation of Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, he praised their Eucharistic devotion and discipleship, reminding the congregation: “We can pretend to follow Jesus without being His disciples.” He called on the faithful to become true disciples who bring hope to society.

After the Mass, a fellowship programme was held, during which congregations of men and women religious engaged in social ministry across Goa were felicitated by Cardinal Ferrão. Appreciating their dedicated service, along with the work of Caritas Goa and other Church-run institutions, the Cardinal said: “You are the face of the Social Apostolate of the Church in Goa.”

He stressed that God’s image is imprinted on every person and called participants to take responsibility for upholding human dignity. “Reaching out to the needy and those on the peripheries of society, and thus restoring the image of God, is our responsibility,” he said.

Highlighting the richness of diversity, he added: “Whatever may be our diversities, they reflect God’s richness. Let us celebrate diversity.” Cardinal Ferrão further underlined the importance of synodal discipleship rooted in Christ, calling the faithful to embrace forgiveness and compassion.

“Social Apostolate is a mission, and mission calls for dedication and self-sacrifice. Be rooted in Jesus and move forward with optimism and joy in heart,” he said.

Fr Savio Fernandes welcomed the gathering, while Ashton Souza anchored the programme. The fellowship included interactive games and presentations showcasing the social ministries of various congregations in Goa. Representatives from Caritas Goa centres and religious congregations from across the Archdiocese actively participated. Fr Maverick Fernandes expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the Jubilee celebration.

By Bro Malvino Alfonso

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