Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão Calls Priests to Witness Peace Through Humility, Dialogue and Prayer

Old Goa, March 26, 2026 — Emphasising a spirituality rooted in humility, attentive listening and dialogue, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão urged priests to become authentic “messengers of peace” during the anticipated Chrism Mass at the historic Se Cathedral on March 26.

Preaching on the theme “Anointed Ministers, Messengers of Peace,” the Cardinal reflected on the divine origin of peace, noting that it is inscribed in every human heart by God, though wounded by sin and restored through the mission of Christ. He reminded priests that, as anointed ministers, they are called to embody Christ’s love through service, particularly to the poor and marginalised, becoming instruments of reconciliation in a fractured world.

Describing the priest as one intimately united with Christ, the Prince of Peace, Cardinal Ferrão highlighted that true peace is communion with God—received in prayer and shared through pastoral ministry. He called on clergy to cultivate a life centred on prayer, accompanied by attitudes of humility and openness, in order to faithfully reflect Christ’s presence.

Developing his reflection further, the Cardinal presented a threefold vision of priestly ministry grounded in the Gospel: caring, serving and compassionate love. Recalling Christ’s healing of the leper, he spoke of caring love that reaches out to the excluded and restores dignity, especially among the sick and marginalised. Reflecting on the multiplication of the loaves, he underscored the call to self-giving service, where leadership is expressed through generosity and sacrifice. Finally, drawing from the encounter with the woman caught in adultery, he described compassionate love as both truthful and merciful, urging priests to respond with understanding even in the face of opposition.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Cardinal Ferrão and concelebrated by Bp Simião Fernandes, Bp Alex Dias, Bishop elect Fr Agnelo Pinheiro, along with numerous priests of the Archdiocese.

At the conclusion of the Mass, the Cardinal expressed gratitude to the clergy and faithful while voicing concern over the declining number of vocations to the priesthood and religious life. He encouraged priests to lead by example—being kind, approachable and gentle with young people—entrusting the growth of vocations to God. He also appealed for prayers for vocations across the Church.

Highlighting the Church’s mission to the poor, he called for the strengthening of the Good Samaritan Fund in parishes, especially where it has yet to be established.

The Chrism Mass, a significant moment of unity between the bishop and his priests, included the blessing of the Holy Oils: the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Sick and the Sacred Chrism, to be used in sacramental celebrations throughout the year.

On the occasion, diocesan pastoral resources, including the Pastoral Diary, Pastoral Planner and a booklet with guidelines for the Ros Ceremony, were also released. The liturgy was coordinated by diocesan officials, with active participation from clergy and faithful, marking a solemn celebration of communion and mission in the local Church.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso, OCD