Cardinal Ferrão Ordains Twelve Priests for the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman

Goa, April 29, 2026: In a profound celebration of faith and vocation, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão ordained twelve deacons to the priesthood during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the historic Sé Cathedral on April 29.

The ordination Mass drew a large congregation of clergy, religious, family members, and faithful from across the archdiocese. The liturgy was concelebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Simião Fernandes and Bishop Agnelo Pinheiro, along with numerous priests of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman.

The newly ordained priests are Fathers Dion Rodrigues, Elidio Carlos Noronha, Bevan Rebello, Aaron Eusebio D'Souza, Aestrony Herbert Franco Costa, Nion Nickson Colaco, Cidroy Ascino Fernandes, Sanvy Jesus Cardoso, Lindon Rijoe Sequeira, Valancio Anthony Fernandes, Jofhuo Chrispino Fernandes, and Canjoy Fernandes.

Their journey to the altar reflects years of spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation. They began their seminary training at the Seminary of Our Lady, pursued philosophical studies at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, completed theological formation at the Good Shepherd Institute of Theology, and underwent diaconate preparation at the Pastoral Institute in Old Goa.

Preaching on the theme, "Shepherds of Jesus in pilgrimage, ministers of hope in service," Cardinal Ferrão called upon the ordinands to embrace their priestly ministry with humility, courage, and unwavering dedication. Reflecting on Christ as the Good Shepherd, he reminded them that priesthood is both a sacred privilege and a demanding mission.

Drawing inspiration from the call of the Prophet Jeremiah, the Cardinal noted that divine vocation is accompanied by both grace and challenge. He urged the newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in their commitment, particularly in serving the poor, the vulnerable, and those living on the peripheries of society.

He further encouraged them to become authentic witnesses of Christ's compassion, carrying forward the Church's ministry of reconciliation, mercy, and hope. Stressing the importance of spiritual discipline, Cardinal Ferrão exhorted them to anchor their lives in prayer, the Word of God, and the faithful celebration of the Sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist.

Addressing the faithful, the Cardinal appealed for continued prayer and generous collaboration, asking the Christian community to accompany these young priests as they begin their pastoral ministry in the service of the Church.

By Br Malvino Alfonso

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download