- 13 May, 2025
Loutolim, Goa, May 13, 2025: The Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Pilar marked two significant events during a solemn Eucharistic celebration held at the Saviour of the World Church in Loutolim on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. During the celebration, two sisters from the congregation made their definitive commitment, while three others commemorated 25 years of religious life. The Mass was presided over by Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman. Fr. Simon Fernandes Parish Priest of Saviour of the World Church Lotoulim, Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, Superior General of the Society of Pilar; Fr. Joaquim Fernandes SVD, Episcopal Vicar for Religious; Fr. Joaquim Rebelo SFX, Provincial Superior of Goa Province of Society of Pilar; Fr. Sanjay Fernandes OFM Cap, Parish Priest of Shelti; and several other priests concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration.
During the celebration, Sr. Mital Sambar of Nagar Haveli and Sr. Corina Pereira of Loutolim made their definitive commitment at the hands of Sr Luiza Fernandes, Mother General of the congregation, formally sealing their lifelong commitment to the religious vocation. The event also celebrated the Silver Jubilees of Sr. Hazel Fernandes (Sanvordem), Sr. Conceição Gomes, and Sr. Sandia Azavedo (both from Arossim-Cansaulim). The three sisters were honoured during the event in recognition of their 25 years of dedicated service to the congregation and the Church. Additionally, the congregation observed its annual ‘Society Day’ during the same occasion.
In his homily, Bishop Simião Fernandes reflected on the theme ‘Transmitters of God’s love to others’. He encouraged the faithful to embody the simplicity and humility exemplified by Pope Francis and to live lives that bear authentic witness to the Gospel. He also emphasised the importance of service, particularly towards those on the margins of society.
“We must deepen our relationship with Jesus through prayer,” he said, “so that we may become true transmitters of God’s love.”
He also encouraged the Sisters and the faithful to imitate Christ, learn from His example, value the apostolate, and actively reach out to others in need.
Bishop Simião also commended the service rendered by the Pilar Sisters in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman and prayed for the intercession of Our Lady of Pilar to help all spread God’s love.
Fr Diogo D’Souza, SFX, served as the liturgical commentator, while Seminarian Ryan Mascarenhas and Sr Alzira Gomes MSP animated the liturgy. The Youth Saviourites choir led the congregation in liturgical singing, enriching the spiritual atmosphere of the celebration.
Fr. Simon Fernandes, Parish Priest of Saviour of the World Church, warmly welcomed Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, on the occasion of his first official visit to the Parish of Loutolim following his Episcopal Ordination. He also extended a heartfelt welcome to all the faithful gathered for the celebration.
In her speech, Sr. Corina Pereira expressed gratitude to those who supported and journeyed with the Sisters in their religious vocations. Sr. Luiza Fernandes, Mother General of the congregation, also spoke, encouraging parents to nurture their children's spiritual call and urging the community to continue fostering vocations to the religious life.
The event concluded with the felicitation of the Sisters who made their definitive commitment and those who celebrated their Silver Jubilee.
Reported by Bro. Malvino Alfonso OCD
Photographs by Alfred Fernandes
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