Chicalim in Goa Marks 400 Years of Christian Faith with Grand Celebration

Chicalim, Goa, October 18, 2025: The parish of Chicalim celebrated the culmination of 400 years of Christian faith with a solemn Mass and thanksgiving ceremony presided over by Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman.

The event brought together around 600 parishioners, clergy, and religious from across the Mormugao deanery. Among the guests were former parish priests, local leaders, and Captain Viriato Fernandes, Member of Parliament.

In his homily, Cardinal Ferrão reminded the faithful that faith is a gift to be nurtured through prayer, Scripture, and participation in the Eucharist. Drawing on the example of St Francis Xavier, he urged the community to live in unity and serve as instruments of peace. “Family is the basic community,” he said, encouraging families to strengthen the faith that has been handed down for generations.

The celebration also featured the unveiling of a relic from the Basilica of Bom Jesus—a piece of wood from the coffin of St Francis Xavier—presented by Rector Fr Patricio Fernandes, SJ, and received by parish priest Fr Bolmax Pereira.

A commemorative coffee table book documenting the 400-year journey of faith in Chicalim was also released. The publication, edited by Fr Bolmax and a team of parishioners, highlights the parish’s spiritual heritage and cultural life.

Cardinal Ferrão concluded the Mass with a special blessing for the faithful. The evening closed with the release of a Jubilee theme song by SFX Music Academy and a fellowship meal sponsored by Filomena’s Kitchen Restaurant.

The celebration marked not only the end of a year-long Jubilee but also a reaffirmation of Chicalim’s enduring Christian legacy and community spirit.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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