50th Pastoral Enrichment Programme Begins at St. Pius X Pastoral Institute

Old Goa, June 20, 2026: The 50th Pastoral Enrichment Programme was inaugurated at the St. Pius X Pastoral Institute, Old Goa, on June 12, coinciding with the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The year-long formation programme, themed “Abiding in Christ, Let Us Restore All in Him,” welcomed nine deacons preparing for pastoral ministry.

The inauguration commenced with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão. The Mass was concelebrated by priests from neighbouring parishes, members of the Institute faculty, visiting professors, and parish priests entrusted with accompanying the deacons during their pastoral placements.

In his homily, Cardinal Ferrão reflected on the programme’s theme, emphasising the transformative grace of Baptism, through which believers enter into a living relationship with God, fellow human beings, and the whole of creation. Encouraging the deacons to deepen their discipleship, he highlighted three essential dimensions of Christian life: rootedness in faith, formation in faith, and celebration of faith.

Welcoming the gathering, Fr. Candido Fernandes, Director of the Institute, introduced two new members of the pastoral team: Fr. Dion Rodrigues, who assumes the role of Secretary of the Institute, and Fr. Onasis D’Cruz, the newly appointed Director of the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate. He also extended a warm welcome to the nine deacons embarking on their pastoral formation journey.

A special moment during the programme was the felicitation of Fr. Mariano D’Costa in recognition of his eleven years of dedicated service as Director of the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate. Fr. Fernandes expressed gratitude for his significant contribution to biblical formation and pastoral ministry in the archdiocese.

Adding a cultural dimension to the celebration, the deacons presented the choral piece “Rejoice, the Lord is King” by George Frederick Root, enriching the occasion with music and prayer.

Following the inaugural ceremony, Cardinal Ferrão, accompanied by Simão Purificação Fernandes and Fr. Candido Fernandes, met with the parish priests who will mentor the deacons during their pastoral assignments. The Archbishop also interacted with the deacons’ family members in the presence of the Institute staff, acknowledging their support in the candidates’ vocational journey.

The day concluded with a fellowship meal, fostering fraternity among participants and guests. As part of the inaugural celebrations, a friendly football match was held between the Pastoralites and the youth of Sé Catedral Parish, Old Goa. Fr. John Alban, Assistant to the Parish Priest of Sé Catedral Parish, attended the sporting event as chief guest.

The golden jubilee edition of the Pastoral Enrichment Programme marks a significant milestone in the formation ministry of the St. Pius X Pastoral Institute, continuing its mission of preparing future priests for effective pastoral leadership and service in the Church.

By Deacon Ryan Mascarenhas