Bishop Simião Calls Church in Goa to Walk Together in Synodality

Goa, January 17, 2026: Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, called on the Church in Goa to journey together in hope, harmony and communion as he addressed the XIX Major Superiors’ Meeting with diocesan heads at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre on January 17.

Speaking on the theme “Synodality: A Journey of Hope, Harmony and Communion”, Bishop Fernandes conveyed the reflections and concerns of Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, whom he represented on the occasion. At the outset, he highlighted the prophetic responsibility of speaking on behalf of the Archbishop and welcomed the religious men and women present.

He structured his address around five key dimensions—Appreciation, Information, Collaboration, Clarification and Contemplation—each underscoring the shared journey of the local Church.

Expressing deep gratitude, Bishop Fernandes acknowledged the significant contribution of religious congregations to the life and mission of the Archdiocese, particularly in education, healthcare, pastoral and social ministry, parish animation, prison ministry, outreach to women in distress and migrant pastoral care. Speaking on behalf of the Archbishop, he said the Church in Goa is enriched by the presence, witness and generous commitment of religious communities, whose selfless service continues to shape faith, values and social awareness.

Sharing key ecclesial priorities, he outlined developments in the synodal process, referring to the Final Document of the Synod’s Second Session of October 2024 and the booklet Pathways for the Implementation Phase of the Synod. He detailed the proposed timeline, with diocesan-level implementation during 2025–2026, evaluation phases in 2027 at diocesan, national and international levels, a continental evaluation in early 2028 and the General Assembly later that year. He also highlighted eight facets identified by the Archdiocesan Synodal Team, describing a Church that is synodal, listening, co-responsible, participatory, inclusive, accountable, compassionate and visionary. He stressed that implementation requires concrete action and noted the active involvement of religious representatives.

On interreligious dialogue, Bishop Fernandes affirmed its importance in a pluralistic society while urging pastoral prudence, clarity and sensitivity to avoid confusion among the faithful.

Referring to the diocesan pastoral planning process, he said it aligns with the CCBI Pastoral Plan – Mission 2033, marking 500 years of the Archdiocese in 2033. He emphasised that the plan will emerge from a participatory, grassroots process involving clergy, religious, laity and various groups within the Church.

Bishop Fernandes appealed for stronger collaboration in safeguarding Catholic educational institutions, deepening parish and catechetical involvement and addressing ecological concerns. He also raised pastoral issues related to Sunday Masses in religious houses, parish connectedness and fidelity to liturgical norms, calling for dialogue and shared reflection.

Concluding, he invited participants to prayerful contemplation and discernment, encouraging deeper engagement in synodal pathways and diocesan life. He said synodality calls the Church to walk together, listening and responding faithfully to the Spirit.

Bishop Simião Calls Church in Goa to Walk Together in Synodality

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