Media Release

Goa, Jun 17: A grand and grace-filled Eucharistic celebration marked the event titled ‘Yatra Bhorvanxeachi, Vakhann’nni Devachi’ (A journey of Hope, in praise to God) commemorating 90 years of dedicated service by the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, Goa India.

The solemn liturgy, on June 16, held at Holy Family Convent, Sancoale, began with a short PowerPoint presentation by Sr Sukuria, introducing the congregation. A graceful prayer dance by the girls of Holy Family Convent Boarding, led the procession of priests for the Holy Eucharist, which was presided over by his lordship, Simiao Purificacao Fernandes, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, alongside 19 concelebrating priests.

Solemn Eucharistic celebration

The celebration took place in the esteemed presence of - superior general of the Society of Pilar: Fr Nazareth Fernandes, SFX, provincial of the Jesuits of the Goa Province: Fr Pedro Rodrigues, SJ, episcopal vicar of South Goa: Fr Kenneth Teles, and other priests holding prominent positions. Also, in attendance were religious from various congregations, benefactors, and well-wishers all gathered in a spirit of thanksgiving and unity.

A homily that touched hearts

During his inspiring homily, his lordship shared a poignant example of a teacher who asked students to draw anything they wished. While some drew houses and cars, expressing gratitude for material possessions, one student drew only hands, labelling them ‘hands of God’.

The bishop skillfully connected this to the ‘hands’ that have built and sustained the congregation: the founder Fr Faustino de Souza, the pioneering sisters who toiled tirelessly, the past and present Generals, the elderly sisters, and those who have passed on. He emphasized that now, it is the ‘hands of each member’ that continue to contribute to the congregation’s mission.

SFN: A spiritual call to holiness

His Lordship further reflected on the three letters ‘SFN,’ noticed upon entering the chapel. Rooted in St Paul’s teachings from the day’s reading, he interpreted them as: Sugunn (Holiness), Foler (Focus), and Noikar (Saying No) - a spiritual roadmap for living a faithful and purposeful life.

Offering of fruits and thanksgiving

Following communion, each ministry (education, pastoral, youth, social, communication, etc) within the congregation was highlighted with a symbolic offering of fruit - an expression of thanksgiving for nine decades of fruitful and dedicated service.

The Superior General Sr Berna Rodrigues, offered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to his excellency and all the priests, religious, those present and all the sisters who worked in collaboration for the event to be a success and continue to accompany the mission.

Honouring the pioneers

The event also included special felicitations. Earlier that day, his lordship, accompanied by the superior general and sisters, visited, blessed, and felicitated the elderly sisters unable to attend, at Eleanora Linse Bhavan - honouring their quiet, steadfast witness and lifelong dedication and thanked them.

After the Eucharist, the other elderly sisters and the outgoing superior generals were also honoured. The heartfelt introductions of the recipients were led by Sr Armida, whose gracious presence and words added warmth and dignity to the moment of recognition.

Harmonies of hope

With voices lifted in melodious harmony, full of reverence and grace, the choir of Perpetual Succour Convent High School, Navelim, led the congregation in prayerful song - echoing the spirit of grace and devotion enriched the Eucharistic celebration.

Celebrating excellence and launching the magazine

The evening concluded with the launch of the congregation’s quarterly magazine Savera, unveiled by the auxiliary bishop and the superior general. Students of HFNES who excelled in the SSC examinations (2024–2025) were also recognised, with special felicitations for the toppers.

The celebration left hearts full and spirits uplifted - a fitting tribute to a journey rooted in love, service, and unwavering trust in divine providence. All attendees received a copy of Savera as a memento of this joyful occasion.