Cardinal Filipe Neri Highlights Dignity of Work at Parish Employees’ Christmas Meet in Goa

Goa, December 30, 2025: A Christmas gathering for parish employees was held in Goa on December 30, during which Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão emphasised that daily work, when carried out with faith and joy, becomes a pathway to holiness.

Representatives of sacristans, cooks, grave diggers, gardeners, clerks and other support staff from parishes across Goa and Daman attended the programme. Expressing his happiness at their presence, the Cardinal acknowledged their often unseen but vital contribution to the life and mission of the Church.

Explaining the purpose of the meet, Cardinal Ferrão said it was organised not only to celebrate Christmas but also to express the Church’s gratitude and concern for parish employees who serve faithfully behind the scenes. Reflecting on the meaning of work, he spoke on responsibility, dignity and work as a means of holiness, stressing that every form of labour has its own value and serves both society and the Church.

“Holiness is not achieved by chance,” the Cardinal said, adding that dedication to daily work helps sanctify families, communities and the Church itself. He encouraged parish employees to continue their generous service with joy, recalling St. Paul’s reminder that God loves a cheerful giver.

Touching on care for creation, the Cardinal described nature as the common home of all and urged parish employees to contribute to its protection by safeguarding forests, rivers, lakes and other natural resources.

Noting that only representatives from each parish were invited, Cardinal Ferrão asked them to convey the Church’s appreciation to all parish employees. He also pointed out that in recent years the Christmas celebration has been extended to deafblind children and their parents, prisoners and residents of homes for the aged, reflecting a commitment to inclusion and compassionate outreach.

Auxiliary Bishop Simião Fernandes, Chancellor Fr. Romeo Monteiro, Caritas-Goa Director Fr. Maverick Fernandes, Episcopal Vicars and several parish priests were present.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD

Image credits: Joseph Fernandes