Convocation at Institute Mater Dei Celebrates Formation, Mission, and Synodal Hope

Old Goa, March 29, 2026: The academic year 2025–2026 at Institute Mater Dei drew to a prayerful close with a solemn convocation ceremony marked by thanksgiving, reflection, and a renewed commitment to mission.

The day began with the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, who invited the gathered sisters and students to embrace their vocation as a shared journey of hope. Centred on the theme “Journeying Together in Hope,” the liturgy underscored unity and collaboration, symbolised by the image of a boat navigating together towards a fruitful mission.

In his homily, Cardinal Ferrão urged the sisters to become instruments of love, peace, and unity, particularly on the margins of society. He called them to remain deeply rooted in Christ and steadfast in their missionary commitment. Drawing inspiration from Pope Francis, the Cardinal highlighted the Church’s synodal path as one of communion, participation, and mission, encouraging openness to the Holy Spirit, dialogue across differences, and the building of bridges in a diverse world.

He further exhorted the students to carry forward the spirit of hope and synodality into their future ministries, witnessing to Christ in contemporary society.

Among those present were Sr. Celine Fatima SSAM, Executive Member of the Conference of Religious Women India, and Mr. Jomit Mathew, Finance Manager of CRWI.

The valedictory programme began with a welcome address by Sr. Margaret Julie SSAM, followed by a prayer dance and the traditional lighting of the lamp. Diplomas were conferred by Cardinal Ferrão on students who successfully completed courses in Theology and Formation, marking a significant milestone in their spiritual and academic journey. The institute also released its annual magazine on the occasion.

A cultural presentation by students, featuring skits and dances, creatively echoed the convocation theme, while personal testimonies by Sr. Tincy FMCK and Sr. Punita CSST offered glimpses into the transformative experience of formation.

The annual report was presented by Sr. Gracy Lily FS and Sr. Margaret Julie, highlighting the institute’s key activities and achievements over the past year. The programme was compered by Sr. Ashima SCC and Sr. Neelima Mary ASMI, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sr. Aarti Wad FMCK and Sr. Nirmala SCC.

The celebration culminated in a vibrant tribal dance, heartfelt expressions of gratitude from students, and the singing of the Institute Mater Dei anthem—bringing to a close a meaningful academic year shaped by faith, fellowship, and mission.

Convocation at Institute Mater Dei Celebrates Formation, Mission, and Synodal Hope

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