Sr. Raiza Fernandes Makes Final Profession at Sancoale Chapel in Goa

Sancoale, Goa, April 24, 2025: Sr. Raiza Fernandes, a native of Cansaulim village and a member of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, made her final profession of perpetual vows during a solemn ceremony held on April 23, 2025, at the Holy Family Chapel in Sancoale. The ceremony was attended by her family members, relatives, fellow villagers, clergy, members of her congregation, and parishioners of Cansaulim and Sancoale.

Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao presided over the Eucharistic celebration, centered on the theme “An offering of love, dedicated to the Word of God and spreading hope.” Frs. Roblan and Peter Britto concelebrated the Mass, which featured reverent hymns and a deeply reflective liturgy.

During the mass, Cardinal Ferrao presented Sr. Raiza with a ring as a sign of her perpetual commitment to God. He also delivered a deeply inspiring homily. He emphasized the sacredness of perpetual vows and the call to live a life of humility, grace, and selfless love.

The ceremony began with a graceful procession, symbolizing Sr. Raiza’s joyful surrender to God’s will. Before the Mass, Sr. Myra Mendes shared a moving presentation on the history of the Holy Family Congregation, highlighting its legacy and mission. This provided meaningful context for Sr. Raiza’s vows. During the Mass, hymns led by Fr. Kevan Rodrigues and his choir, and commentary by Sr. Jeryssa Pereira deepened the spiritual experience.

During the celebration, Sr. Raiza solemnly professed the evangelical vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, dedicating her life to God and her congregation.

After making her profession, Cardinal Ferrao, in his address, encouraged her to radiate hope and compassion through her vocation, drawing inspiration from Christ’s boundless love and outreach.The Cardinal also expressed gratitude to the religious community, the parishioners of Cansaulim and Sancoale, and the clergy for their support in organizing the ceremony. He urged the faithful to continue praying for vocations, especially during difficult times.

Sr. Berna Rodrigues, the Superior General, welcomed Sr. Raiza into the community of perpetually professed sisters. She encouraged her to uphold the congregation’s mission with fidelity, love, and unity, rooted in the teachings of its founder.

The ceremony concluded with Sr. Raiza expressing gratitude to the clergy, choir, and all those present for their prayers and support as she embraced this new chapter of her religious life.

By Sr. Molly Fernandes sfn