Holy Family Sisters in Goa Initiate Devotion to Founder Fr. Faustino de Souza

Sancoale, 25 April 2025: The Holy Family Sisters officially initiated the devotion to their founder, Fr. Faustino de Souza, on 24 April 2025 with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at their headquarters in Sancoale, Goa. This marked the beginning of a spiritual movement aimed at advancing his cause for recognition and encouraging the faithful to seek favours through his intercession.

Presided over by Fr. Peter Fernandes SFX, the celebration reflected on the theme, “Like Fr. Faustino, let us live in holiness and hope.” In his homily, Fr. Fernandes offered a poignant reflection on the life, spirituality, and enduring legacy of Fr. Faustino. He noted that Fr. Faustino was deeply inspired by St. Francis Xavier and Fr. Agnelo de Souza—his spiritual director and fellow villager.

Fr. Fernandes highlighted Fr. Faustino’s visionary role in founding the congregation, emphasising that only those graced with holiness could be called to initiate such a mission. Years before establishing the congregation, Fr. Faustino, upon his transfer to the village, contacted the Bethany Sisters in Mangalore and sent young women for religious formation. His foresight and dedication ultimately led to the formation of the Holy Family Sisters.

Following the Mass, the congregation, together with family members, parents, and boarders, gathered at Fr. Faustino’s bust for a communal prayer. A candle-lighting ceremony enriched the atmosphere as participants offered personal prayer intentions, seeking his intercession.

A sister’s testimony recounting spiritual favours received through Fr. Faustino’s intercession, particularly an instant miracle on his 50th death anniversary at St. Michael’s Church, Anjuna. A performance of two original songs composed by Sr. Myra Mendes, sung by her and the Candidates, celebrated Fr. Faustino’s life and spiritual legacy.

The occasion was filled with reverence and unity, symbolising a significant milestone in the congregation’s mission to promote the cause of Fr. Faustino de Souza. As the devotion to him begins, the Holy Family Sisters hope his life and intercession will inspire many to pursue holiness and trust in God’s providence.

By Sr. Molly Fernandes SFN