Goa Marks 375th Birth Anniversary of St. Joseph Vaz with Renewed Missionary Zeal

Goa, April 22, 2026 — The 375th birth anniversary of St. Joseph Vaz was commemorated with deep spiritual fervour at the sanctuary in Sancoale, as devotees gathered on April 21 to honour the life and legacy of the revered “Patron of Goa” and “Apostle of Sri Lanka.”

The celebration began with a solemn concelebrated Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Fr. Peter Britto, with Fr. Kenneth Teles and Fr. Christopher joining as co-celebrants. The liturgy drew the faithful into prayerful remembrance of the Goan saint, whose missionary witness continues to inspire the Church, particularly across Asia.

In his homily, Fr. Kenneth Teles reflected on the theme of fearless faith, drawing parallels between the life of St. Joseph Vaz and the witness of St. Stephen. He emphasised the importance of placing reverence for God above fear of human opposition, embracing forgiveness, and remaining steadfast in one’s faith traditions. Referring to the martyr’s courage and final prayer, he called the faithful to a life of unwavering witness and total surrender to God’s will.

Expanding on the missionary identity of St. Joseph Vaz, Fr. Teles outlined key aspects of the saint’s apostolate. He highlighted Vaz’s incarnational approach to mission, noting how he immersed himself in local cultures and languages and chose to live among the poor. His ministry, he said, transcended religious boundaries, as the saint served people of all faiths, especially during times of plague and famine.

Fr. Teles also recalled the saint’s crucial role in sustaining the persecuted “Hidden Church” in Sri Lanka, where he carried out his mission discreetly under challenging circumstances. Through tireless effort, he established hundreds of churches and chapels, nurturing the faith of scattered Christian communities. Central to his mission was a deep Marian devotion, expressed through the “Letter of Bondage,” by which he entrusted himself entirely to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The homily concluded with a prayer that the same missionary zeal that animated St. Joseph Vaz would continue to inspire the faithful in Goa and beyond.

Parish priest Fr. Kenneth expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to organising the celebration, which was marked by a spirit of unity and renewal.

The commemoration served as a moment of spiritual enrichment for the faithful, reaffirming their call to live out the Gospel with courage, compassion, and missionary commitment, following the enduring example of St. Joseph Vaz.

By Sr. Molly Fernandes