- 02 February, 2025
Goa, February 2, 2025: The Diocesan Catechetical Centre of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman organised a Catechetical Day (Jubilee of Catechists) in celebration of the Sunday dedicated to the Catechetical Apostolate in the Archdiocese. The event took place at St. Joseph’s Church in São José de Areal from February 1-2, 2025. The weekend program, inspired by the Biblical model, highlighted four key traits of the early Christian community. Following Jesus' example of sending disciples in pairs, 225 catechists from various parishes across the Archdiocese joined Small Christian Communities, staying with local families for prayer and fellowship.
The program commenced with a prayer led by Sr. Curcina Simoes FMCK, followed by the lighting of the traditional lamp by Fr. George Ratos, Dean of Quepem Deanery, and Fr. Damaciano Carvalho, Parish Priest of St. Joseph's Church, São José de Areal, along with a catechist and religious representative. Fr. Damaciano Carvalho extended a warm welcome to the catechists. In his address, Fr. George Ratos expressed his admiration for the valuable service of the catechists, stating, "You are the gift to the Church." Fr. Marcelino Rodrigues, Director of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, provided guidance to the catechists, emphasising the significance of their involvement with Small Christian Communities and their overnight stay with the families.
Day two started with a Praise and Worship session, followed by the Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Fr. Hendry Falcão and Fr. Damaciano Carvalho welcomed the attendees.
Delivering a homily on the theme "Go, radiate the light of Jesus, the hope through Catechism," Fr. Henry Falcão called on catechists to remain close to the Church. "We acknowledge the significant responsibility you carry in your parishes, but I urge you to always stay aligned with the Church," he said. "A catechist can never be against the Church or its teachings. A catechist must be open to the Church, its teachings, and its authority." Fr. Henry Falcão, who also serves as the Director of the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, emphasised, "Let our lives radiate through the Word of God."
Reflecting on the lives of Simeon and Anna, who were present in the temple when Jesus was presented, Fr. Falcão related their lives to that of a catechist. He highlighted three essential qualities needed for catechists. First, since the message is divine, catechists must be filled with the Holy Spirit. Second, they must study the Scriptures. And third, they must live righteous and holy lives.
The cultural program featured performances, including a welcome song, prayer dance, play, and Manddo, by various catechetical units in the deanery. Marina D’Silva shared her Jubilee experience, while Grelisa Azevado expressed gratitude for over 15 years of service as a catechist.
In a recognition ceremony, 113 catechists from Benaulim, Canacona, Chinchinnim, Quepem, Raia, and Sanguem deaneries were honoured for their dedication. These catechists, who have served for 15 or more years and continue to serve, were felicitated at the hands of Fr. Hendry Falcão and Fr. Damaciano Carvalho.
Speaking as a Chief Guest, Fr. Henry Falcao, after the mass, said that the Jubilee year is the time to reflect on our lives.
Tokens of appreciation were presented to those who helped organise the event, with Fr. George Ratos distributing them. The cultural program was hosted by Swizel Mascarenhas and Jack Fernandes. Fr. Marcelino Rodrigues concluded the event with a message of gratitude to all involved.
By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD
Image credit: Richard Pereira
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