The Deaf Ecclesial Advocacy and Fraternity (DEAF) members of Goa participated in a spiritually enriching Lenten Retreat held on 19th March 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the St. Francis Xavier’s Training Centre for Persons with Disability.
The retreat was uniquely conducted entirely in sign language by Fr. Joseph Thermadam, making it deeply accessible and meaningful for all participants. Fr. Joseph, who belongs to the Congregation of Holy Cross and is based in Kerala, guided the faithful through the day’s spiritual journey.
The programme commenced with warm words of welcome by Fr. Rosario Walter D’Souza, who encouraged the participants to make the most of the retreat. This was followed by the Rosary, setting a prayerful tone for the day.
Fr. Joseph then delivered a Lenten talk focusing on forgiveness and God’s mercy, inviting the participants to reflect deeply on these themes during the Lenten season. The Way of the Cross was conducted in sign language, allowing everyone to fully participate in the remembrance of Christ’s passion. The celebration of the Holy Eucharist was also carried out in sign language, adding to the inclusivity and spiritual depth of the retreat.
A lunch break provided an opportunity for the members to come together in fellowship, strengthening their bonds as a community. Post-lunch, Eucharistic Adoration was held, along with the Sacrament of Confession, offering participants time for silent prayer and reconciliation.
The retreat concluded with heartfelt expressions of gratitude from the members of the DEAF community. They sincerely thanked Fr. Joseph for his presence and for ministering to their spiritual needs in such an accessible manner. Appreciation was also extended to the St. Francis Xavier’s Training Centre for Persons with Disability for their thoughtful arrangements and continued support towards the spiritual well-being of the Goan deaf community.
