Cardinal Filipe Neri Calls for Faith-Centred Entrepreneurship as Goa Dimensions Marks 10 Years

Feb 14, 2026: A strong call to anchor enterprise in faith, integrity and service to society marked the 10th anniversary of Goa Dimensions, as church leaders and entrepreneurs gathered for a commemorative Eucharistic celebration at St. Michael Church, Taleigao.

Addressing members of the Goa-based business and networking organisation, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão urged entrepreneurs to view business as a vocation that builds communities, sustains families and advances the common good. Emphasising stewardship and moral responsibility in economic life, he encouraged professionals to embody Gospel values through integrity, collaboration and service.

In his homily, Simiao Fernandes reflected on the symbolism of the human hand, recalling a child’s drawing that expressed gratitude rather than material aspiration. He invited the faithful to ground their economic pursuits in four pillars — Purpose, Partnership, Progress and Gratitude — and to recognise job creation as a noble calling shaped by faith and responsibility.

Delivering the keynote address, Cardinal Ferrão illustrated the ethical dimension of entrepreneurship with an anecdote attributed to Mahatma Gandhi, urging business leaders to rise above greed and negativity. Citing Ephesians 2:10, he underscored that human talents are gifts entrusted for the benefit of society. He praised the organisation’s decade-long contribution to nurturing entrepreneurship and called on members to be “salt, light and leaven” within their communities.

Highlighting the moral weight of economic activity, the Cardinal emphasised service over self-interest and integrity over profit. Drawing inspiration from A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, he reminded participants that enduring success demands perseverance and sacrifice. He affirmed the Church’s support for entrepreneurs and prayed for continued growth and fruitfulness in the years ahead.

In his presidential address, Jason Andrade addressed the challenge of migration, noting that a significant proportion of Goan Christians have moved abroad since Liberation. He called for a shift from dependency to entrepreneurship, outlining a strategy focused on promoting self-employment, strengthening existing ventures and fostering parish-level initiatives rooted in Christian values. He invited Church institutions to take an active role in advancing economic empowerment and self-reliance.

The celebration also honoured founders, directors, operational teams and long-standing members who contributed to the organisation’s journey. Founder Evencio Quadros and several contributors received recognition for their leadership and service. Hand-painted portraits of Cardinal Ferrão and Bishop Fernandes were presented as tokens of appreciation, while cultural performances, including a juggling act by Wenchesley and Wencliff, showcased local talent.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Director Antonio da Cunha said the event was organised entirely through the contributions of entrepreneurs, reflecting the spirit of collaboration that has defined the organisation’s growth.

With a decade of initiatives behind it, Goa Dimensions reaffirmed its commitment to fostering ethical enterprise and community-oriented development, positioning faith-inspired entrepreneurship as a pathway toward sustainable growth and social transformation.

By Sr. Molly SFN