Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão Ordains Nine Deacons, Urges Them to Be “Proclaimers of Love”

Goa, April 21, 2026: In a solemn and grace-filled Eucharistic celebration, Filipe Neri Ferrão ordained nine seminarians to the Order of the Diaconate for the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, calling them to a life rooted in prayer, humble service, and the proclamation of God’s love.

The ordination took place at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, drawing clergy, religious, and faithful in large numbers. The Archbishop presided over the liturgy, joined by seminary formators and priests of the archdiocese.

Preaching on the theme “Abiding in Christ, Proclaimers of Love,” Cardinal Ferrão urged the newly ordained to cultivate an intimate relationship with Christ through prayer and to reflect His presence in their ministry. He reminded them that the diaconate is a call to serve with humility and to proclaim the Word of God with conviction. Emphasising the pastoral dimension of their vocation, he encouraged them to recognise Christ in every person, particularly in those who suffer.

The nine new deacons—Nyron Naik, Roshel Fernandes, Standly Colaco, Hilario De Lima, Kennedy Mascarenhas, Ryan Mascarenhas, Jayson Colaco, Lawrence Vaz, and Caron Cardozo—will serve in various parts of the archdiocese as they continue their journey towards priesthood.

The liturgy was marked by reverence and rich musical accompaniment, with the seminary community actively participating in the celebration. A vote of thanks was delivered on behalf of the newly ordained, expressing gratitude for the support and guidance received during their formation.

Following the Eucharist, a felicitation programme honoured the new deacons and their families, celebrating their years of preparation and commitment. Addressing the gathering, the seminary rector encouraged the deacons to remain steadfast as they enter the final stage of their formation.

The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman marked the occasion with thanksgiving, rejoicing in the generous response of these young men to God’s call and their readiness to serve the Church.

By Seminarian Fedrick Vas