- 03 August, 2026
Goa, August 3, 2026: The year-long celebrations commemorating the 350th Jubilee of Bom Jesus Church, Nachinola, concluded with a solemn and spiritually uplifting celebration that reflected the enduring faith, unity and rich heritage of one of Goa's historic Catholic parishes. The closing ceremony brought together clergy, religious, parishioners and well-wishers to celebrate three and a half centuries of unwavering Christian witness while renewing their commitment to the future under the Jubilee theme, "Let Us Live in Faith, Hope and Love."
The concluding celebrations began with the arrival of Bishop Alex Dias, who was accorded a warm welcome by members of the Confraria and parish representatives. Young children dressed as angels greeted the Bishop by showering flower petals, symbolising God's abundant blessings upon the parish community. Bishop Dias then unveiled the 350th Jubilee commemorative plaque, creating a lasting memorial to the church's remarkable journey of faith before proceeding into the church for the solemn Eucharistic celebration.
The Pontifical Mass was celebrated by Bishop Alex Dias together with Parish Priest Fr. Romualdo Robin Rodrigues, Dean of the Aldona Deanery Fr. Mario Leitão, former Parish Priest Fr. Francisco X. Fernandes, Fr. Biju, Fr. Menino Mendes, Fr. Paul (Dominican), Fr. Dion, and three sons of the soil — Fr. Jaime Couto, Fr. Dionisio Manoel Rodrigues (SFX) and Fr. Dominic D'Cruz.
The liturgy was beautifully enhanced by the parish choir under the direction of Fr. Francisco Miranda. His dedication to sacred music brought a profound sense of reverence to the celebration. He has also composed the parish hymn and the Rosary dedicated to Bom Jesus, leaving the parish with a spiritual legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
Before the Eucharistic celebration commenced, grandparents representing each Somudai were invited to light the 350th Jubilee Lamp. The deeply symbolic gesture honoured those whose steadfast witness has preserved and nurtured the Catholic faith in Nachinola for centuries while signifying the passing of faith from one generation to the next.
In his inspiring homily, Bishop Dias reflected on the Jubilee theme, reminding the faithful that although the Jubilee Year had reached its conclusion, its spirit should continue to live in every heart. Faith, he said, is not confined to commemorative celebrations but is a lifelong journey that must continually deepen and bear fruit.
The Bishop congratulated the parish for embracing such a meaningful Jubilee theme and illustrated its significance through a touching anecdote. He narrated the story of a child trapped inside a burning building who was asked by his father to jump from the first floor. Although the child could not see his father waiting below, he trusted the familiar voice calling him.
The Bishop explained that genuine faith often requires believers to trust completely in God even when they cannot see the way ahead, confident that He never abandons His people. The moving reflection on faith, hope and love resonated deeply with the congregation.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Parish Priest Fr. Dion Rodrigues expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Dias and all the concelebrating priests for their presence and prayers. He paid special tribute to Fr. Miranda for his invaluable contribution to the parish's liturgical music and thanked the Parish Pastoral Council, parish associations, volunteers, benefactors and every parishioner whose dedication made the Jubilee celebrations a remarkable success.
He then solemnly read the Apostolic Blessing and message received from the Holy Father, conveying the Pope's prayers and blessings upon the parish community. The Parish Pastoral Council Moderator later presented an overview of the commemorative 350th Jubilee Souvenir, highlighting the extensive research, dedication and collaboration involved in producing the publication before it was formally released by Bishop Dias.
The occasion also recognised academic excellence and dedicated service within the parish. Students who had excelled in their examinations were felicitated, while members of the Parish Pastoral Council received commemorative mementoes in appreciation of their commitment to the Church and the community.
The celebrations concluded in a true spirit of Christian fellowship as parishioners, clergy, guests and well-wishers gathered for a community dinner, sharing conversations, laughter and memories that reflected the unity which has characterised Bom Jesus Church throughout its 350-year history.
As the curtain falls on this historic Jubilee Year, its legacy extends far beyond commemorative plaques and publications. It has renewed hearts, strengthened faith, fostered deeper communion and reminded every parishioner that they remain living stones in the continuing life of Bom Jesus Church, Nachinola. As the parish embarks upon its next chapter, may the enduring message of the Jubilee continue to inspire every family and every generation: "Let Us Live in Faith, Hope and Love."
Courtesy Savio Fernandes (Parish Council Moderator)
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