"Sacred Music Speaks to Us About Repentance and Grace” Says Cardinal Ferrão at Sacred Music Concert

Old Goa, March 31, 2025 – The annual Sacred Music Concert, directed by Fr. Romeo Monteiro, Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, took place on March 30 at St. Anthony’s Chapel, Old Goa, with Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, as the chief guest. The event, held during the Lenten season, provided a space for deep spiritual reflection and meditation through sacred music.

In his address during the concert, Cardinal Ferrão reflected on the Church’s synodal journey, emphasising Pope Francis’ call for a synodal Church marked by communion, participation, and mission.

“We are the chosen people of God, a community of disciples, baptised followers of Jesus, called to journey in intimacy with Him, building communion and proclaiming the Good News,” the Archbishop said.

The Cardinal, who serves as the president of FABC and CCBI, also highlighted the significance of the Lenten season. He noted that this sacred period during the liturgical year is a time of reflection on the passion and resurrection of Jesus. "This concert, in particular, takes on a special meaning as we reflect on the themes of Lent," he shared.

Cardinal Ferrão praised Fr. Romeo Monteiro for creating not just a musical experience but a spiritually enriching event. “Fr. Romeo has been offering us a means to connect with God through sacred music and reflections on His Word,” he said, emphasising that the evening’s focus was on meditation, not just music. “Fr. Romeo certainly deserves our appreciation for this successful concert,” he added.

The concert, featuring soaring melodies and solemn tones, invited attendees into deep meditation, focusing on repentance, hope, and grace. The archbishop also connected the concert to the Jubilee Year 2025, encouraging all to embrace the spirit of pilgrimage, reconciliation, and peace.

As the event concluded, Cardinal Ferrão commended the performers, noting, “Through their dedication, they have helped us connect more deeply with our faith.”

The songs during the concert were performed by 62 participants and were a profound expression of both Lenten devotion and the Jubilee Spirit, fostering reflection on God’s grace and the shared journey of faith.

By Bro. Malvino Alfonso OCD