Fr. Faustino De Souza: A Humble Founder Whose Legacy Continues to Inspire

November 24, 2025:

As the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth (SFN) observe Founder’s Day on 24 November, they remember the birth anniversary of Fr. Faustino De Souza, born in 1893. His life stands as a profound example of humility and a steadfast mission to renew hope and spiritual life in Goa during a period marked by the suppression of religious institutes.

A Legacy Rooted in Humility

Fr. Faustino’s life reflected the humility he so often preached. His Pearls of Wisdom guided his sisters towards virtues such as love, silence, divine providence, sacrifice, mortification, and above all, humility. This virtue defined both his leadership and his personal response to adversity.

He adopted the biblical image of the “lamb taken to the slaughterhouse”, choosing silence and acceptance when faced with criticism, accusations, or misunderstandings. He refrained from defending his work or reputation, allowing his actions to speak for themselves. This quiet strength deeply influenced his emerging community and the wider Church in Goa. He believed that those who willingly embrace humility become “beloved of God and man”.

A Missionary Who Ignited Hope

A zealous priest and visionary, Fr. Faustino became a source of hope for the marginalised. Recognising the spiritual and social gaps left by the earlier suppression of religious orders, he founded the SFN Congregation in 1935 to serve local families and later envisioned expanding to neighbouring states.

His initiatives focused on uplifting the poor, orphans, and the elderly. He established schools and boarding houses in remote regions, supporting families in crisis and providing holistic education. The continued tradition of distributing the sweet gôdde on Founder’s Day reflects his desire to encourage and empower students.

Understanding the importance of knowledge and communication, he urged the sisters to learn languages and engage in writing and communication ministry. He published spiritual booklets himself and viewed writing as a vital tool for spreading the Gospel, encouraging the women of his congregation to become capable communicators of Christ’s love and hope.

Vocation Rooted in Interior Renewal

For Fr. Faustino, the strength of the congregation’s vocations and missionary work reflected its spiritual integrity. He regarded declining numbers not merely as organisational challenges but as signs of deeper spiritual neglect.

He called the sisters to examine their conscience, renew their commitment to their vows, and deepen their interior life. He believed that authentic joy, unity, and piety within the community naturally inspired new vocations. In his view, the most effective promoter of vocations was the holy and faithful living of its members.

Fr. Faustino De Souza’s enduring legacy continues to inspire selfless service and Christ-like humility. His life demonstrated that true influence lies not in seeking honour but in serving with sincerity and virtue.

Fr. Faustino De Souza: A Humble Founder Whose Legacy Continues to Inspire

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