Diploma Day Celebrated at Carmelite Monastery, Margao

Margao, Goa, 12 April, 2025 : A solemn Diploma Day ceremony was held at the Carmelite Monastery in Margao, marking the successful completion of Bible courses conducted at the Monastery and at Our Lady of Carmel Chapel, Curtorim.

Organised by the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate, the courses aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of Sacred Scripture and promote a life rooted in the Word of God. A total of 109 individuals took part—58 studied the Acts of the Apostles and the Book of Revelation in Margao, while 51 explored the Parables of Jesus in Curtorim.

Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, Bishop Simião Fernandes, presided over the Eucharistic celebration and delivered a homily centred on the theme “I Hope on Your Word.” Emphasising the transformative power of Scripture, he called on the faithful to live in hope and to become beacons of that hope for others.

“The Word of God helps us grow in our Christian life and become righteous,” the Bishop said, describing it as a guiding light along life’s path and a means of entering the intimate family of Jesus.

Bishop Fernandes also led the distribution of diploma certificates to the course participants.

Fr. Mariano D’Costa, Director of the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate, and Fr. Marlon Rodrigues, Superior of the Carmelite Monastery, commended the dedication of those who completed the course. Juliet Costa served as liturgical commentator, while participant Chrysanthus Miranda shared his reflections on the course’s impact. Sharon Coutinho, Biblical Animator at the Monastery, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks.

The event celebrated not only academic achievement but also a renewed commitment to living the Word of God.

By Br Malvino Alfonso OCD

Image credits : Fr. Santhosh Menezes OCD