Cardinal Filipe Neri Leads Tribute to Fr. Faustino on 50th Death Anniversary

Goa, March 26, 2025: “Fr. Faustino, through his concern and dedicated service to the poor and the needy, became a true messenger of hope in his priestly life,” said Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman. He spoke on the theme Fr. Faustino, A Model of Hope during a Mass at St. Michael’s Church, Anjuna, marking the 50th death anniversary of Fr. Faustino De Souza, founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth in Goa.

The Mass was presided over by Cardinal Ferrão, with Fr. Shantiago Fernandes SFX, Parish Priest of Anjuna and other priests concelebrating.

Reflecting on Fr. Faustino’s legacy, Cardinal Ferrão described him as a compassionate pastor and humble servant who deeply cared for his flock and the underprivileged, embodying the message of hope. He called upon the Congregation to continue this mission by demonstrating genuine concern for others, serving with dedication, living exemplary lives, and fostering communion.

Highlighting Pope Francis’ concern in Spes Non Confundit, his Bull of Indiction for the Jubilee Year, Cardinal Ferrão urged the Congregation to be signs of hope for the poor, the needy, and those on the peripheries. He emphasised that this can be achieved by faithfully following Jesus, deepening their faith, and living out the commandment of love.

The Cardinal, who also serves as the President of the CCBI and FABC, appreciated the mission of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. He was welcomed with a dance and a performance by the Brass Band of St. Michael’s High School. During the ceremony, he unveiled a special prayer in honour of Fr. Faustino and Savera, a quarterly publication of the Congregation. 

A Rosary dedicated to Fr. Faustino, to be recited by the Sisters in their communities, was also released. Sr. Concy Bragança SFN anchored the release ceremony, while Sr. Berna Rodrigues SFN, Superior General, expressed gratitude. Liturgical singing was led by teachers and students from St. Therese High School, St. Estevam, as Fr. Shantiago Fernandes addressed the gathering.

Following the Mass, a commemorative programme featured a prayer dance by boarders of St. Joseph’s Convent School, Nagoa, and a musical enactment of Fr. Faustino’s life and mission by parishioners of Sancoale. Sr. Aroline Silveira SFN compered the event. The commemoration reinforced Fr. Faustino’s enduring legacy of faith, service, and hope.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD