Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth Mark 90 Years of Service in Goa

Sancoale, Goa, June 17, 2025: The Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth (SFN) in Goa marked its 90th anniversary with a solemn Eucharistic celebration on Monday, June 16, at the Holy Family Convent in Sancoale, Goa.

The Mass, themed “Yatra Bhorvanxeachi, Vakhann’nni Devachi” (A Journey of Hope, in Praise to God), was attended by clergy and religious from across Goa, as well as benefactors and well-wishers of the congregation. His Lordship Simião Purificação Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, presided over the Holy Eucharistic celebration.

The event commenced with a presentation by Sr. Sukuria, introducing the congregation’s history and mission.

A graceful prayer dance by the girls of the Holy Family Convent Boarding set the tone for the celebration, leading a procession of 19 priests who concelebrated the Mass alongside Bishop Simião.

Dignitaries present for the celebration included Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, S.F.X., Superior General of the Society of Pilar; Fr. Pedro Rodrigues, S.J., Jesuit Provincial of Goa; and Fr. Kenneth Teles, Episcopal Vicar of South Goa, along with several other prominent clergy from Goa.

In his homily, Bishop Simião shared a moving anecdote of a student who drew a pair of hands labelled “hands of God”. The bishop connected this drawing to the “hands” that have built and sustained the SFN congregation over the years: the congregation’s founder, Fr . Faustino de Souza; the pioneering sisters of the congregation; the past and present Generals; the elderly sisters; and those who have passed on. He emphasised that now, it is the “hands of each member” that continue to contribute to the congregation’s mission.

The bishop also reflected on the three letters of the congregation’s acronym “SFN”. Rooted in St. Paul’s teachings from the day’s reading, he interpreted them as Sugunn (Holiness), Foler (Focus), and Noikar (Saying No) – three core values needed for living a faithful and purposeful life.

Following communion, each ministry of the congregation—education, youth, social, pastoral, and communication—was highlighted with a symbolic offering of fruit—an expression of thanksgiving for nine decades of fruitful and dedicated service.

Sr. Berna Rodrigues, Superior General of the congregation, extended heartfelt gratitude to His Lordship Bishop Simião, the concelebrants, guests, and every sister whose contribution made the event a success.

The celebration also included special felicitations. Earlier that day, Bishop Simião, accompanied by the Superior General and sisters, visited, blessed, and felicitated the elderly sisters of the congregation who were unable to attend the function.

After the Eucharist, the other elderly sisters and the former Superiors General of the congregation were also honoured.

The choir from Perpetual Succour Convent High School, Navelim, elevated the liturgy of the Mass with reverent and melodious hymns, reinforcing the atmosphere of grace and devotion.

The evening concluded with the official launch of 'Savera', the congregation’s quarterly magazine, by the auxiliary bishop and the superior general. Additionally, students from the Holy Family of Nazareth Educational Society who excelled in the 2024–2025 SSC examinations were felicitated.

The commemoration closed on a note of deep joy and spiritual upliftment—a powerful testament to 90 years of faithful service, love, and unwavering trust in divine providence. Attendees received copies of 'Savera' as a lasting memento of this milestone celebration.

By Sr. Molly Fernandes sfn