Chicalim Christians in Goa Celebrate 400 Years with a Call to Care for Nature

Chicalim, July 23, 2025 — As part of the ongoing 400-year celebration of the Christian faith in Chicalim, the vibrant and reflective event Xristti Utsov – Let’s Celebrate Nature was held on 20 July 2025 at the Village Panchayat Hall, Chicalim. Organised by the Assoi Dongri and Regina Mundi sectors of St. Francis Xavier’s Church, the event was a heartfelt tribute to God’s creation, blending faith, tradition, and environmental responsibility.

The celebrations were preceded by a two-day Coconut Palm Art Workshop on 18 and 19 July, also held at the Panchayat Hall. Led by Mrs. Sabina Da Cunha from Parra, the workshop reconnected participants with nature through the revival of Mollam Making—a traditional coconut palm craft she learned from her grandmother. A volunteer with DRAG and Secretary of the Haemophilia Federation of Goa, Mrs. Da Cunha is passionate about preserving this eco-art form. The handcrafted pieces produced during the workshop were later used to decorate the main event, showcasing the often-overlooked artistic potential of the coconut palm.

The main event on 20 July unfolded with a series of off-stage and on-stage competitions that celebrated and reflected on the theme of ecology. Children participated enthusiastically in a salad decoration competition, while adults took part in the Wild Fresh “Fulam ani Panna Mandopp” contests, crafting intricate displays using natural elements.

Poster and slogan competitions added a visual and verbal layer to the environmental message, offering participants a platform to express their concern and commitment towards ecological preservation.

A highlight of the evening was the sector-wise cultural performances, where participants—ranging from children to the elderly—delivered powerful messages through street plays, skits, dances, mime, songs, fashion shows, and ramp walks. Each item was inspired by the call to celebrate and protect the environment, creatively portraying the beauty and fragility of the natural world.

The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including representatives from the Diocesan Commission for Ecology (DCE-Goa), Goencho Ekvott, the Convenor, the Pallottine Fathers, the Christian Brothers, and notable individuals such as Mrs. Sabina Da Cunha, Mr. Raj Bhandare, Mrs. Joyce Teles, and Mrs. Anita Fernandes. Their presence lent inspiration and depth to the celebration.

More than just a cultural gathering, Xristti Utsov stood as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness between faith and care for creation. It served as a call to consciousness—blending spirituality, tradition, community engagement, and ecological awareness into a meaningful and memorable event. As Chicalim marks four centuries of Christian faith, this celebration will be remembered for bringing creativity, stewardship, and unity to the heart of the community.

By Saviola Fernandes

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