The parish of Chicalim celebrated a momentous milestone on 16th October, 2024, with the 400th anniversary of Christian faith in the region. The solemn occasion was graced by Auxiliary Bishop Simiao Purificação Fernandes, along with the Parish Priest, Father Bolmax Fidelis Pereira, and the Episcopal Vicar, Father Kenneth Teles. The celebration witnessed an overwhelming participation of around 500 parishioners, religious nuns, ex-parish priests, and clergy from across the deanery.
The event commenced at 5:20 PM with a symbolic act. Bishop Fernandes, using a wooden hammer, knocked on the church door, ceremoniously ushering in the 400-year celebration. He then proceeded to cut a ribbon at the entrance of the church, officially marking the beginning of the year-long celebration. All the parishioners followed the Bishop into the church, signifying their collective journey of faith.
The highlight of the event was a Eucharistic celebration led by the Bishop, with participation from the parishioners and religious members of the community. Following the Mass, the lighting of ceremonial lamps took place, a symbol of faith and love. The first lamp was lit by the Bishop, followed by Father Teles, and then by the parishioners. These lamps will remain lit throughout the year, symbolizing the enduring flame of faith within the community.
After the Eucharistic celebration, the Bishop bestowed a special blessing upon all the attendees, a moment cherished by the parishioners, who felt fortunate to receive his spiritual grace.
At the heart of the celebration, Bishop Fernandes delivered a powerful message, emphasizing the parish’s enduring witness to “communion, participation, and mission,” in alignment with the Church’s synodal themes. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he said, “Faith is like a solid rock that stands firm forever,” and highlighted the many who have given their lives for this faith, a legacy passed down from their ancestors. He honored the parish’s patron saints, St. Bartholomew and St. Francis Xavier, as examples of unwavering faith, reminding the congregation that the Church, or “ecclesia,” means assembly—working together in communion. Living in unity, he said, allows families, parishes, and communities to be true witnesses of faith.
Another key moment was the inauguration of a newly built grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Perpetual Succor. The event included a prayer service and the recitation of one decade of the Rosary, with prayers dedicated to each of the ten sectors of the Chicalim parish.
The evening concluded with a fellowship meal, bringing the community together in joy and gratitude for their shared faith and heritage.
This grand celebration marks the beginning of a year-long commemoration of 400 years of Christianity in Chicalim, a testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of the parish.
