Br. Gabriel Fernandes Elected Provincial of Goa Capuchins

Goa, April 20, 2026: In a spirit of prayer, discernment, and fraternity, the Capuchin friars of the St Anthony Province of Goa gathered for their 5th Elective Provincial Chapter at Monte de Guirim from April 13 to 17, 2026. Br. Gabriel Fernandes OFM Cap was elected as the new Provincial, entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the province.

Br. Gabriel succeeds Br. Estêvão Rodrigues. Alongside him, a new Provincial Council was also elected to assist in the governance of the province:

Br. Kennedy Menezes as Vicar Provincial, Br. Seville Antão as Second Councillor, Br. Alden Faleiro as Third Councillor, and Br. Rahul Fernandes as Fourth Councillor.

Hailing from Seraulim in South Goa, Br. Gabriel’s journey reflects a deep-rooted faith shaped within a close-knit family. The son of the late Anthony Fernandes and Agnese Sequeira, he is the second among seven children. His vocation to the priesthood blossomed within this environment of simplicity and faith, eventually leading to his ordination on May 18, 2009.

His pastoral vision has been enriched by both local and international experiences. Notably, he pursued two years of specialized studies in Youth Ministry in Los Angeles, USA, equipping him to engage meaningfully with young people in a rapidly changing world.

Over the years, Br. Gabriel has served the Capuchin Province in various capacities, demonstrating both leadership and pastoral sensitivity. He has held office as Provincial Councillor and later as Vicar Provincial. His role as Guardian of different fraternities for two terms reflects his closeness to the community life of the friars.

He currently serves as the President of the Conference of Religious India (CRI), Goa, fostering collaboration among religious congregations. He is also an active member of the Diocesan Service Team and has contributed to the Synodal journey of the Archdiocese of Goa as part of its Synodal Team.

Those who know him often speak of his simplicity, accessibility, and deep Franciscan spirit—qualities that resonate with the charism of St Francis of Assisi. As Provincial, he now carries the responsibility of nurturing fraternity, strengthening mission, and responding to the pastoral needs of the times.

His election comes at a moment when religious life is called to renewed witness and relevance. With his experience, vision, and rootedness in faith, Br. Gabriel Fernandes is expected to lead the Goa Capuchins with wisdom, humility, and a spirit of service.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD