Cardinal Filipe Neri Invites Faithful to Embrace the “Little Way” of St. Thérèse

Goa, 1 October, 2025: Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão invited the faithful to embrace the “Little Way” of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus and become a source of hope for others during the feast day celebration at the Carmelite Monastery in Margao, Goa, on 1 October. He delivered a homily on the theme “St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus: The Little Way of Hope for the Pilgrim Church,” marking the Centenary Anniversary of her Canonization.

“Let us embrace the ‘Little Way’ of St. Thérèse and become a source of hope for others,” said Cardinal Ferrão.

The Carmelite Friars, along with the Carmelite Family and Secular Carmelites, joyfully celebrated the centenary of St. Thérèse’s canonization at the monastery.

The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão and several other priests. Reflecting on the Bull of Indiction Spes non confundit by Pope Francis for this Jubilee Year, Cardinal Ferrão encouraged the faithful to live as pilgrims of hope, highlighting St. Thérèse as an inspiring example.

Speaking on the Little Way of St. Thérèse, Cardinal Ferrão, President of FABC and CCBI, reminded the faithful of its three dimensions: loving God with boundless love and unswerving trust; walking in humility; and showing caring and compassionate love.

“She responded with merciful love to those who were harsh to her and set an example to us,” said the Prelate. “We are all called to holiness, and for this St. Thérèse is a model for us,” he added.

“St. Thérèse is the principal joint Patroness of missions, and she is a missionary disciple whose witness inspires the Synodal Church. Let us become missionary disciples of Jesus, following the example of St. Thérèse,” said the Cardinal.

Cardinal Ferrão urged the faithful to become instruments of holiness in their families, neighbourhoods, and wherever they may be.

As part of the celebration, prizes were distributed to the winners of various competitions organised by the Secular Carmelites and the Carmelite Family in Goa. Fr. Marlon Rodrigues OCD expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the centenary celebration. The liturgy was animated by the Carmelite Family and the Secular Carmelites, with liturgical singing led by the Carmelite Choir.

A cultural programme was held, featuring presentations by the competition winners. Sr. Veera D’Sa CCR proposed the vote of thanks, while Fr. Don Tony D’Souza OCD skilfully anchored the programme.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD