“When We Listen to Our Children, We Give Them Hope”: Bishop Simião at Catechetical Sunday Celebrations

Goa, February 1, 2026 — Catechetical Sunday was marked with prayerful reflection and renewed pastoral commitment in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman during celebrations held on January 31 and February 1 at Sts Cosme and Damian Church. Organised by the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, the observance culminated in a solemn Eucharistic celebration on February 1, presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Simião Fernandes of Goa and Daman.

The Eucharist was concelebrated by Fr. Marcelino Rodrigues, Director of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre; Fr. Kenneth Teles, Episcopal Vicar for the South Zone; Fr. Teo Fernandes, Parish Priest; Fr. Lucas Rodrigues SFX, and several other priests.

In his homily, centred on the theme “Let Us Proclaim Hope Through Catechesis,” Bishop Fernandes called on catechists to become credible witnesses of hope in the lives of children and families. He emphasised that meaningful catechesis begins with an understanding of the family contexts and lived realities of students, underscoring the importance of empathy, attentiveness and accompaniment.

Reflecting on the liturgical readings, the Bishop highlighted God’s preferential closeness to the marginalised, the poor and the vulnerable, noting that hope is most vividly revealed in lives shaped by the Beatitudes. Those who strive to live according to these values, he said, experience the true blessedness promised by God.

Encouraging catechists to embrace their vocation with love and fidelity, Bishop Fernandes outlined the mission of a catechist through the acronym HOPE, offering a pastoral framework rooted in synodal listening and Christian witness.

He first underscored the importance of “H – Hear,” urging catechists to listen deeply to children, including their silences, which often reveal unspoken struggles. Such attentive listening, he said, nurtures hope and reflects the synodal spirit of the Church. “When we listen to our children, we give them hope,” the Bishop remarked.

Explaining “O – Offer,” he reminded catechists that their primary task is not limited to teaching lessons or assessing knowledge, but to offer Jesus Christ to the children in their care, recalling the Diocesan Catechetical Centre’s motto, “Let Jesus be formed in you.”

Under “P – Plant (Sow),” the Bishop described catechesis as a long-term ministry that involves sowing seeds of faith by helping children internalise the values of the Beatitudes. He concluded with “E – Example,” stressing that personal witness remains central to catechetical ministry, even while acknowledging human imperfection.

Towards the end of the celebration, Bishop Fernandes expressed gratitude to catechists for their dedication and selfless service, encouraging them to remain steadfast despite criticism. He also thanked the parish priest, parishioners, clergy, animators, the Dean, ACAZ members and all those who contributed to the successful organisation of the Catechetical Sunday celebrations.

“When We Listen to Our Children, We Give Them Hope”: Bishop Simião at Catechetical Sunday Celebrations

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