Thousands Join Lenten Walking Pilgrimage in Goa, Affirming Faith and Hope

Goa, 22 February, 2026 — The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman marked the First Sunday of Lent with its 8th Annual Walking Pilgrimage (Bhavarthachi Yatra), as thousands of faithful converged at Old Sancoale Church in a public witness of prayer, penance and communal faith.

The pilgrimage commenced at 2:00 a.m. from five centres — Bambolim, Neura, Cansaulim, Verna and Vasco — with participants walking nearly 10 kilometres through the night before gathering at the historic church at dawn.

Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao joined the faithful for part of the journey along with Bishop Simião Fernandes Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, and later presided over the Eucharistic celebration. In his address, he described the pilgrimage as a grace-filled opportunity for the local Church to walk with Christ at the beginning of Lent. Echoing the Pope’s Lenten message, he encouraged the faithful to listen attentively to God, fast from harmful words and actions, and strengthen relationships through unity. He also invited parishes to support the Good Samaritan Fund.

Delivering the homily, Fr. Lucio Dias reflected on the theme “Followers of Christ, Pilgrims of Hope,” describing human life as a pilgrimage sustained by hope in Christ’s presence. He urged the faithful to confront temptation through prayer, fasting and the Word of God, pointing to the missionary witness of St. Joseph Vaz as a model of perseverance and trust in God.

Statues depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, provided by Assolna Parish, were displayed at the church, inviting pilgrims to meditate on Christ’s suffering and redemptive love. Many participants remained after Mass in silent prayer before returning with their respective deanery groups.

Eucharistic adoration early in the morning, conducted by the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre and led by Fr. Henry Falcão, preceded the liturgical celebration.

Among the concelebrants were Bishop Simião Fernandes, Bishop-Elect Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro of Sindhudurg, Fr. George Ratos, convenor of the diocesan pilgrimage committee, Fr. Kenneth Teles, parish priest of Sancoale, and Fr. Gabriel Fernandes, president of CRI Goa, along with several clergy.

Liturgical coordination was led by Fr. Afonso Mendonça, with Fr. Olavo Caiado directing the singing. Volunteers from the Diocesan Youth Centre, parish youth groups and parishioners from Benaulim, Lotoulim and Paroda assisted in organising the event, supported by the St. Luke Guild and Nurses Guild.

Participants described the pilgrimage as spiritually enriching and transformative. Fr. Tony Salemma, Administrator of St. Xavier’s College Goa, called it a grace-filled Lenten experience that strengthens priesthood through prayer and fraternity. Maria D’Costa, Sr. Shyja Joseph UMI and Gaby Fernandes shared that the journey renewed their faith, deepened commitment and brought a strong sense of God’s presence despite personal challenges.

The annual walking pilgrimage continues to grow as a defining Lenten tradition in Goa, uniting the faithful in prayerful solidarity and hope.

Thousands Join Lenten Walking Pilgrimage in Goa, Affirming Faith and Hope

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