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On the 1st of May, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Joseph the Worker, this coincides with Labour Day, a reminder that work is not merely a necessity, but a sacred calling.

In Goa, this feast quietly blends into the rhythm of everyday life. We recognise the dignity of work in all its forms, whether it is the fisherman setting out at dawn, the carpenter shaping wood with care, the teacher guiding young minds, or the professional navigating deadlines. In each of these, the spirit of St. Joseph finds a natural home.

St. Joseph’s life was not marked by public recognition or grand achievements. A simple carpenter, he worked with his hands, provided for his family, and carried out his responsibilities with quiet faith.

Reflection: 

Brothers And Sisters, Last month we celebrated ‘Easter’ and as the Apostles along with Mother Mary waited in Prayers for the coming of third persona of God i.e. The Holy Spirit, we celebrate the Feast of Holy Spirit this month. With the coming of the Holy Spirit the Lord’s Church was established and the message of the Lord was out for all the Nations in their Tongues. This is the next greatest moment in our Catholic faith after the Paschal mystery ‘Easter’. The following Sunday the Solemnity of ‘The Most Holy Trinity’ is observed, which is the central mystery of the Catholic faith: one God in three Divine Persons-Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This is not three gods, but one God in a communion of love. The Father is the Creator, the Son is the Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit is the Sanctifier. Though distinct as Persons, they are equal in divinity, eternal, and inseparable in their action. 

This mystery, though beyond full human understanding, reveals that God is not solitude but perfect relationship and love. As we learn in our faith, everything in the Christian life flows from and returns to the Trinity-our prayers, sacraments, and mission. 

Jesus Christ is the unique and eternal High Priest, serving as the sole mediator between God and humanity by offering himself as the perfect, final sacrifice. Unlike Old Testament priests, His priesthood is everlasting, based on the order of Melchizedek, and ensures perpetual intercession for humanity in heaven.

Important Perspectives of Jesus as Eternal High Priest:

Final Sacrifice: Jesus Christ offered his own body on the cross Instead of offering animal sacrifices, thus accomplishing salvation for all mankind who believes in Him.

Distinctive Conciliator: Jesus offered himself on the cross and instituted the Eucharist. He brought mankind closer to God and became a link with humanity, acting as both the offering and the priest who offers.

In the grand tapestry of Salvation history, where prophets thunder and martyrs cry out, there exists a profound resonant silence. It is the silence of a carpenter from Nazareth, a man whose words are never recorded in Scripture, yet whose actions shaped the course of eternity. 

St. Joseph, the Patron of the Universal Church, stands as a testament to the fact that greatness is not found in the volume of one’s voice but in the steadfastness of one’s soul. 

12th April, 2026 being a Sunday, was chosen for a day’s outing, though some couldn’t make it. We started the day after participating in the morning Mass, at around 10 a.m. from the Church. It was an hour’s journey by bus to the picnic spot. Relieved to be away from the day’s unbearable heat… Power Cut !!

As we reached our destination, we eagerly looked for some signboard or the sound of gushing water. Nothing was in sight, so, we embarked on a trail of fallen leaves, with a lot of greenery around. Wild flowers, jackfruit and cashews, tall trees and bamboos on either side, made us feel that we were all on an expedition…tracking the pathway, almost as was in The Secret 7 Series! An unique experience in the woods!

The message of Our Lady of Fátima apparitions centers on prayer, repentance, and conversion. In 1917, the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children in Fátima, urging devotion to God, especially through the Rosary. She called for penance for sins, reparation to her Immaculate Heart, and trust in God’s mercy. The message warned of the consequences of sin, including war and suffering, but also promised peace, if humanity turned back to God. Overall, it emphasizes faith, moral responsibility, and hope in divine grace.

The message of Our Lady of Fátima apparitions speaks powerfully to the present world situation marked by wars such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. These crises reveal not only political disagreements but a deeper moral and spiritual disorder-what Our Lady of Fatima warned as the consequences of sin, pride, and turning away from God.

When the topic “Tilling of Fields” was suggested for our monthly Church Magazine, I accepted it with great enthusiasm. This subject holds a special place in my heart, as I have some personal familiarity with the process. During my younger days, I often accompanied my mother to our fields and witnessed firsthand the various stages of farming from the tilling of the soil to the eventual harvesting of crops. These experiences left a lasting impression on me and helped me appreciate the dedication, patience, and hard work involved in cultivating the land.

Over the years, I have also observed that the process of farming has undergone significant transformation. What was once largely dependent on manual labour and traditional methods has now evolved into a more mechanized and efficient system. Despite these advancements, the core principles of tilling preparation, nurturing, patience, and joy in the outcome-remain unchanged.

Message from the President

The President of the Parish Pastoral Council Rev Fr S. N. Fernandes, spoke about the need for peace in the world. He expressed concern over the fear of a possible third world war, which could affect everyone and urged all to pray for peace and for an end to war. He also mentioned that although the Pope has been criticized by Donald Trump, he remains firm and unafraid, continuing to uphold the values and principles of Jesus Christ.

The PPC President further expressed concern about the lack of dialogue by Donald Trump with other countries before the start of the war, stating that it was initiated without prior discussion. He also spoke about the immense expenses involved in purchasing arms and ammunition for the war, as well as the destruction and loss of lives-both young and old.

He concluded by encouraging everyone to pray with hope for peace in the world.

Prezidium: Saude Saibin, Aquem 

Legio Mariae 
Comitium: Ekvottachea Arka Comitium Margao-Goa (18/06/1967) 
Zomaticho Dis, Mungllar, Vell 5.30 p.m. ani suvat: St. Sebastianvachea firgojechea vosreant. 
Vakeacho Khall: December 2024 to November 2025 
Firgoz: St. Sebastian Church, Aquem 
Vangddiponn: Vaddloleancho presidium 
Vaddlole vaurpi vangddi: 27 vangddi, 
Adari Vangddi: 24 vangddi 
Lhanache vaurpi vangddi: 17 

On the occasion of the 48th anniversary of his ordination, we celebrate the extraordinary journey of Fr. Simpliciano N. Fernandes, whose ministry has spanned over four decades with unwavering dedication and remarkable contributions to the Church and community. Ordained on April 21, 1978, during a challenging time for the Archdiocese, Fr. Simpliciano’s early years in the priesthood were marked by resilience and devotion. 

Fr. Simpliciano has always sought to expand his knowledge and skills to better serve his community. His decision to pursue higher studies at St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, led to his involvement in religious journalism. His contributions to the field earned him the prestigious Fr. John Barret Journalism Award, and he was selected as the Young Catholic Journalist of India for the Summer University in Europe. He received diplomas in Journalism from Fribourg University (Switzerland), Gregorian University (Rome), and Université de Lyon (France).