Goa Archdiocese Marks Jubilee Day for Marian Spirituality with Devotion and Unity

Panaji, Goa, 5 June, 2025: The Jubilee Day for Marian Spirituality was celebrated on May 31, 2025, across various parishes in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, marking the conclusion of the Month of Mary. The celebrations in many of the parishes were led by the World Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) unit of each parish and featured rosary processions, Ignatian-based meditative prayer hours, flower offering ceremonies, and Holy Masses.

Parishes across the state participated with fervour, with several parishioners donning blue and white attire—symbolic of the Virgin Mary. Many parishes conducted the “Povitrtaiechem Vor” (Hour of Holiness), a ten-step guided prayer inspired by Ignatian spirituality and the messages of Our Lady of Fatima. The prayer hour included Fatima prayers taught by the Angel of Peace and Our Lady.

Among the many vibrant observances across the state, three WAF parish units were particularly noteworthy for their creative and spiritually rich celebrations.

At St. Anne’s Church in Ponda, the celebrations featured flower offerings, a meditative rosary, and the celebration of a solemn Holy Mass. After the Mass, a Marian procession was held. The solemn procession was led by 21 children, each representing a title of Our Lady. The church was adorned in blue and white décor and lanterns. A joyful cake-cutting ceremony made the celebration memorable.

St. Francis of Assisi Church, Colvale, began the day with the celebration of a solemn Holy Mass. This was followed by the Povitrtaiechem Vor, enriched with Marian hymns. Later, a reverent “Angels Procession” was held during Salve Regina. The day concluded with community fellowship.

At Our Lady of Fatima Church in Cotto de Fatorpa, the celebrations commenced with the traditional Nhiallacho Ters (Rosary of Reflection). This was followed by the celebration of a special Mass at the church grotto, which was beautifully decorated in Marian colours. Later, over 160 parishioners participated in a candlelit procession. The day concluded with a communal gathering. Organisers described the day’s celebration as a “blessing from Our Lady”.

These celebrations reflect the heart of the Fatima message—prayer, penance, and love for the Immaculate Heart of Mary. As a Public International Association of the Faithful of Pontifical Right, the World Apostolate of Fatima continues this mission of reparation and peace, helping parishes grow as Marian and Eucharistic communities.

By Lester DeMello

Chairman,

World Apostolate of Fatima (Goa Archdiocesan Division & National Centre)