Sr. Emma Maria, Former Carmel College Principal, Laid to Rest in Goa

MAPUSA, Goa, March 4, 2025— Sr. Emma Maria A.C., former Principal of Carmel College for Women, Nuvem, passed away on March 2, 2025, aged 77. Her funeral mass was held on March 3 at St. Jerome’s Church, Mapusa, with Fr. Henry Falcão, Episcopal Vicar for the Central Zone of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, presiding. The ceremony, attended by clergy, religious sisters, former colleagues, students, and well-wishers, honoured her lifelong dedication to education and service.

In his homily, Fr. Walter D’Sa, who has served as principal of several diocesan colleges in Goa, highlighted Sr. Emma’s role in shaping the lives of young women through her leadership at Carmel College. Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, unable to attend due to official engagements, conveyed his condolences through a letter read by Fr. Falcão. In his letter, Cardinal Ferrão praised Sr. Emma's significant contribution to the educational ministry. 

“I pray that the Good Lord may now reward Sr. Emma with the fullness of everlasting life and joy in the Heavenly Kingdom. May all of you, who must be deeply pained with the departure of Sr. Emma, have the strength to accept her demise in a spirit of deep surrender to God’s Will, knowing in faith that you have now in her another powerful intercessor in heaven,” the Cardinal wrote.

The letter also conveyed Cardinal Ferrão’s sympathies to Sr. Emma’s family and Sisters, ensuring his prayers for her eternal repose. “I join you in thanking the Lord for the precious gift of Sr. Emma and for all the fragrance of goodness and joyful service which she spread during her journey of life, particularly as a consecrated person,” he stated.

Sr. Emma dedicated 55 years to religious life, with 29 of those years spent at Carmel College, where she played a pivotal role in its growth. Under her leadership, the institution introduced post-graduate courses in Psychology (Counselling) and M.Com. in 2007. She also launched several add-on courses, including Cosmetology, Voice and Speech, Counselling, Office Management, and Computer Hardware. Additionally, she spearheaded the establishment of an Income Tax Assistance Cell as part of the college’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.

In recognition of her contributions in the field of education, the Goa State Government awarded Sr. Emma the Yashadamini Puraskar in 2005. She also held esteemed positions such as Member of the Goa State Environment Protection Council, Member of the NAAC Peer Team, and Senate Member of the College for Leadership and HR Development, Mangalore.

Following the funeral mass, Sr. Emma’s mortal remains were laid to rest at the cemetery, with Fr. Leonardo Moraes, parish priest of St. Jerome’s Church, leading the final rites. Sr. Susan Pinto A.C., Superior of St. Mary’s Convent, Mapusa, expressed gratitude to all who participated in the ceremony.

Sr. Emma’s legacy as an educationist and leader continues to inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the academic and spiritual community she served with dedication.

By Bro. Malvino Afonso, OCD