Peaceful Protest in Chicalim Condemns Injustice Faced by Catholic Nuns and Youth

Goa, August 6, 2025: Over 200 individuals, including priests, nuns, and laity, participated in a peaceful protest march in Chicalim, Goa, on 5th August, voicing their deep concern over the unjust prosecution of Sr. Preeti, Sr. Vandana, and the youth who were allegedly targeted by extremist forces. Although the sisters are currently out on bail, the protest stood as a firm call against religious intolerance and the misuse of laws against minorities.

The silent procession began from St. Francis Xavier Church, Chicalim, and proceeded to the Ambedkar Circle and back, led by Fr. Bolmax Pereira. The gathering included parishioners from Chicalim and Desterro-Vasco, along with several clergy and religious leaders: Fr. Xavier Braganza, Dean of Mormugao Deanery; Fr. Francis X. Pereira of Chicalim Church; Br. Charles from the Christian Brothers; and Sr. Anita and Sr. Jessy James from the Ursuline Sisters of Mary Immaculate, who serve in Desterro parish. They stood united in support of the accused sisters and youth.

Participants held placards, sang hymns, and walked in prayerful silence, appealing for justice, peace, and communal harmony amidst rising concerns over religious persecution.

Young voices from the parish echoed the urgency for solidarity. Valerie Afonso urged more youth to step forward, warning that the future of Christianity and humanity rests on their active involvement. Steven Vaz condemned attempts by the government to divide citizens along religious lines and called on all communities to resist such divisive agendas through unity.

Parishioner Inacio Fernandes thanked Fr. Bolmax for mobilising the community, reminding everyone that while Christian teachings promote forgiveness, even Jesus questioned his own unjust trial. He stressed the moral necessity of peaceful resistance against injustice.

Fr. Xavier Braganza expressed sorrow over the treatment of Sr. Preeti and Sr. Vandana, asserting that such events are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of harassment against Christians in India. He called upon the government to uphold the Constitution and protect the values of inclusivity, dignity, and peace. “Christians are a peace-loving community rooted in love,” he said, urging national leaders to build a truly inclusive New India.

In a deeply emotional speech, Sr. Jessy James thanked the laity for their unwavering support. She clarified that priests and nuns dedicate their lives to serving the marginalised, not to convert. “Even if we face persecution or bloodshed, we will not turn back. We are Easter people, and Alleluia is our song,” she said, describing Sr. Preeti and Sr. Vandana as heroines of faith and resilience.

Concluding the march, Fr. Bolmax Pereira delivered a moving message of strength and divine assurance. He affirmed that those anointed for God’s work are never alone, and that the community stands as the army of God. “We may be silent, but our God fights for us,” he said, urging participants to respond to oppression with prayer, peace, and sacrificial love. He called for solidarity with all persecuted communities across India and the world.

As the gathering dispersed, it carried with it a renewed commitment to justice, peace, and unwavering prayerful solidarity.

By Jessica Vales

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