The Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol organised a Theological and Pastoral Formation course for the lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol which concluded with a Diploma Day on 18th January 2026.
A 14-session Theological and Pastoral Formation course for the lay faithful exploring the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church had 142 participants.
Theh Diploma Day began with the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by the Most Rev. Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman.
Delivering a homily on the theme, “Called, Consecrated, and Sent to be Witnesses of Jesus,” Cardinal Ferrão reminded the participants of the universal call to holiness. He stated that the Diploma Day of the 14-session formation course brought participants together “as one family” under this theme.
Reflecting on Sacred Scripture, the Cardinal emphasized that God’s call is always a sign of divine predilection and is oriented toward service. God, he noted, does not choose the powerful, but “calls the weak and strengthens them through grace.” This call is first received in Baptism, where every Christian is anointed, consecrated, and sent to be light and witnesses of Christ in the world.
The Eucharistic celebration was followed by the programme where Simitra Rodrigues from Assolna and Mr. Jason Gonsalo de Araujo from St. Cruz shared their personal experiences of the Course. They were convinced that the course not only enlightened their minds but also strengthened their life of faith.
Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, addressing the participants of the Theological and Pastoral Formation Course after the Holy Mass, congratulated them for their commitment and sacrifices. He acknowledged the support of their families and friends, saying, “You have made many sacrifices by coming for thirteen Sundays. I appreciate you and I congratulate you and your families for taking part in this beautiful journey of deepening your faith.” He also thanked the Rachol Seminary staff and students for organizing this valuable course.
Referring to Pope Francis’ Evangelii Gaudium, he called it “a beautiful document that presents the pastoral vision of Pope Francis as the successor of Peter” and quoted its opening line: “The joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus.”
Drawing from the Gospels, he reflected on Zacchaeus, the Samaritan woman, and St Paul, noting, “Zacchaeus had wealth, but not happiness. The moment Jesus entered his life, there was an about-turn.” He added, “Before we think of God, God thinks of us,” assuring that Jesus waits patiently for every person.
On Christian witness, he recalled Jesus’ words, “You are the salt of the earth,” explaining that believers are called “to preserve what is good and prevent others from falling.” Turning to the Synod on Synodality, he reminded participants that every baptized person is a missionary disciple, quoting the Risen Lord: “As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.”
Emphasizing ongoing formation, he concluded: “The gifts received in baptism cannot remain hidden or unused, but must be put to use for the good of all,” encouraging participants to share their faith so that many may discover “the joy of being disciples of Jesus.”
Cardinal Ferrão released LUCEAS, the annual Magazine-cum-Journal of the Seminary.
Fr Donato Rodrigues, Rector of the Seminary, welcomed all. Fr Ashley Alphonso, Spiritual Director of the Seminary and Coordinator of the Theological and Pastoral Formation Course, expressed gratitude to all.
Seminarians presented a choral piece. Seminarian Aziel Alvares anchored the programme.
