Six Priests Mark Golden Jubilee of Ordination in Margao

Margao, Goa, April 30, 2026: In a moving celebration of faith, service, and perseverance, six diocesan priests of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman commemorated the golden jubilee of their priestly ordination with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Holy Spirit Church, Margao, on April 30.

The jubilarians—Fr. Walter de Sá, chaplain of Our Lady of Candelaria, Alto Porvorim; Fr. Lino de Sá, serving at Our Lady of Grace Church; Fr. Gualberto de Souza, chaplain of Our Lady of Piety Chapel, Aldona; Fr. Diogo M. Fernandes; Fr. Albino Mendonça; and Fr. Agnelo Quadros—offered heartfelt thanksgiving for fifty years of dedicated ministry in the service of God and His people.

Ordained in 1976 as part of a group of nine priests, the celebration also lovingly remembered their three deceased companions: Fr. Jose Menino Rodrigues, Fr. Tomas d'Aquino Sequeira, and Fr. Caetano Piedade Cardoso.

Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão presided over the Eucharistic celebration, while Bishop Simião Fernandes preached the homily. A large number of priests concelebrated, joining the jubilarians in this significant milestone.

Reflecting on the beauty and responsibility of the ministerial priesthood, Bishop Fernandes used the acronym "GOLD" to describe the vocation: a Gift of God's grace, an Offering of one's life in service, rooted in the Love of God and neighbour, and sustained through unwavering Dedication amid both joys and challenges. He praised the jubilarians for their faithful witness and tireless pastoral service over the past five decades.

Cardinal Ferrão extended his warm congratulations, expressing deep gratitude for their invaluable contribution to the Church in Goa. He also acknowledged the vital role of their families, noting that the seed of a priestly vocation is often first nurtured within the home and strengthened by the support of loved ones.

Fr. Romano Rodrigues served as the liturgical commentator, while Seby Fernandes animated the liturgical singing. On behalf of the jubilarians, Fr. Walter de Sá delivered the vote of thanks.

The celebration concluded in an atmosphere of joy and thanksgiving, honouring six lives generously offered in service to Christ and His Church—a testimony to enduring commitment, pastoral zeal, and God's abiding grace.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso

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