The Handmaids of Christ Celebrates 90 Years of Uplifting the Marginalized

Goa, September 20, 2024: The Congregation of the Handmaids of Christ celebrated its 90th anniversary at the Mother House in Calangute, Goa. The event was marked by a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Bishop Simião P. Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman. Concelebrants included Fr. Nazareth Fernandes SFX, Superior General of the Society of Pilar and Fr. Polly Lobo, Parish Priest of St. Alex Church, Calangute.

In his homily, Bishop Simião reflected on the Congregation's journey, emphasizing the visionary leadership of its founder, Monsignor Herculano Gonsalves. He introduced the “3 R’s”—Recount, Renew, and Revisit—as a guide for the faithful to honor the past, embrace the present and adapt to the future. The Bishop also connected Monsignor Herculano’s mission of serving the poor and marginalized with the goals of the upcoming Jubilee Year 2025.

Mother General Sr. Faria Barretto HC expressed gratitude for the Congregation’s legacy, reaffirming their mission to embody Christ’s love through compassionate service. The event included tributes to Bishop Simião and performances by children from the St. Alex Orphanage, who depicted the life of Monsignor Herculano.

Founded in 1934, the Congregation of the Handmaids of Christ continues to serve the poor and marginalized, particularly women and children. As they commemorate this milestone, they also prepare to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their canonical establishment on September 24, 1949. The Congregation currently consists of 137 professed members, with communities both in and outside Goa, carrying forward the mission of compassion and service envisioned by their founder.

By Br. Malvino OCD