Archdiocese of Goa and Daman Celebrates Anticipated Chrism Mass at Se Cathedral, Old Goa

Old Goa, April 10, 2025 — The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman celebrated its anticipated Chrism Mass at the historic Se Cathedral on Thursday, April 10. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, and also marked the anniversary of his episcopal ordination. The Mass was concelebrated by Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, and Bishop Alex Dias, Bishop Emeritus of Port Blair, along with numerous diocesan and religious priests serving in the Archdiocese.

The occasion brought together hundreds of priests, religious sisters, seminarians, laity, and confirmation candidates from across the archdiocese. The Mass was celebrated under the theme “Instruments of Service, Rays of Hope”.

The celebration commenced with a grand procession led by the archbishop and clergy. In a symbolic gesture, each newly ordained diocesan priest and the newly ordained religious priests who are serving in the Archdiocese were presented with a rose and a book from Archbishop Ferrão. To commemorate the archbishop’s ordination anniversary, Bishop Fernandes presented him with a bouquet on behalf of the clergy and faithful.

The homily during the Mass was delivered by Bishop Simião Fernandes. In his address, the bishop reflected on the inspiring vocation story of Fr. Philip Patrick, a former Manchester United footballer from Northern Ireland who became a priest in 2017. Fr. Patrick, despite fame and success, felt an inner emptiness until he discovered fulfilment in serving God and humanity as a priest. Quoting Fr. Patrick’s testimony, Bishop Simião emphasised the inner fulfilment that comes from being an “instrument of service to God and humanity”.

Reflecting on the day’s Gospel from St. John, he urged all the priests present during the celebration to be available for their flock, to lead with humility, and to embrace inclusivity in their pastoral work.

During the Mass, the Holy Oils—the Oil of the Sick, the Oil of Catechumens, and the Sacred Chrism—were solemnly blessed by Archbishop Ferrão and all the priests present. Priests from across the archdiocese also renewed their priestly vows, reaffirming their dedication to their sacred calling. Later, Archbishop Ferrão invited the faithful to pray for him as he marked his episcopal anniversary.

A notable highlight of the day was the release of the Pastoral Diary 2025–2026 and Pastoral Planner 2025–2026. The release was officiated by Archbishop Ferrão, Bishop Fernandes, Bishop Dias, Vicar General of the Archdiocese Fr. José Remedios Fernandes, and Executive Secretary of the Diocesan Pastoral Secretariat, Fr. Leo Fernandes.

Fr. Joel Rodrigues, Assistant to the Parish Priest of Santa Ines, served as the liturgical commentator for the Mass, while Fr. Afonso Mendonça, Director of the Diocesan Centre for Liturgy, animated the liturgy. The choir was led by Fr. Mario Costa, Parish Priest of Carambolim.

In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Ferrão expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who participated in the celebration and all those who organised the event. He praised all the priests of the archdiocese for their tireless service throughout the year and prayed that they continue to be “rays of hope” for the faithful. He also offered prayers in remembrance of all deceased priests of the archdiocese.

The day concluded with an agape lunch for the clergy at the Pastoral Institute and food arrangements for the laity in the vicinity of the Se Cathedral. The celebration marked a day of prayer, unity, and pastoral renewal for members of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman.

By Catholic Connect Reporter