Cardinal Tagle’s Message of Love and Unity Resonates at MISAL 2024, Says Bishop Mascarenhas

Goa, December 3, 2024: Following the opening of the Biennial Meeting of International Societies of Apostolic Life (MISAL 2024), which is taking place in Pilar, Goa, from December 2-6, Bishop Sebastião Mascarenhas of Baroda shared his thoughts on the keynote address delivered by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle. Speaking to Catholic Connect, Bishop Mascarenhas expressed his appreciation for Cardinal Tagle’s presence in Goa and reflected on the significance of his address.

“It’s a grace for the Church in Goa, India, to have Cardinal Tagle among us,” Bishop Mascarenhas said. “Cardinal Tagle is one of the highest-ranking officials in the Catholic Church, serving as third in command after the Pope. To put it in simpler terms, he holds one of the top ministries within the Vatican.”

Bishop Sebastião Mascarenhas sfx, is a member of the Society of Pilar. Participating in MISAL 2024, he moderated the Question-Answer session after the keynote address by Cardinal Tagle.

Bishop Mascarenhas highlighted the essence of Cardinal Tagle’s message, which focused on breaking barriers and expanding frontiers through love. “His message is simple yet powerful,” the Bishop continued. “He speaks about love that goes beyond duty—love that reaches even to our enemies, to bring peace. Just as Jesus broke societal barriers, reaching out to touch the sick and lepers who were cast aside, Cardinal Tagle encourages us to do the same—to heal and transform the world through love and compassion.”

Bishop Mascarenhas emphasized the relevance of this message, particularly in today’s world. “In the challenges we face today, this message is incredibly timely and meaningful. It reminds us of the importance of reaching out with love and peace to others, just as Jesus did,” he said.

MISAL 2024 is being organized by the Missionary Society of St. Francis Xavier, popularly known as the Society of Pilar.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD