The Green Guardians Certificate Course titled “A Lenten Path of Ecological Conversion” was successfully organized by the Salesian Sisters in collaboration with the Diocesan Commission for Ecology. The programme also received endorsement from the FABC Office for Human Development and Climate Change Desk, highlighting its importance in promoting ecological awareness and climate action within faith communities across Asia.
Held in hybrid mode at St. Francis Xavier Church, the course witnessed an overwhelming response of 115 participants registering from different parts of Goa and beyond. Participants included eco ambassadors from various parishes of the Archdiocese of Goa, local eco-coordinators of the Salesian Sisters Mumbai Province, youth leaders, educators, environmental activists, and individuals passionate about caring for the environment.
Inspired by the teachings of Pope Francis in his encyclical Laudato Si’, the course aimed to encourage ecological conversion by combining spirituality, environmental awareness, and practical action. The organizers emphasized that the programme was not merely a certificate course but a movement to build a community of environmentally conscious citizens committed to protecting Mother Earth.
The course was coordinated by Rev. Dr. Bolmax Pereira, Convenor of the Diocesan Commission for Ecology Goa; Sr. Melissa D’Souza, Head of the Eco Sector of the Salesian Sisters Mumbai Province; and Alisha Pereira, Treasurer of the Chicalim Youth Farmers Club. The livestreaming and online technical coordination for the course were efficiently managed by Nathaniel Nunes, ensuring active participation from those attending virtually through YouTube. Participants also completed reflective assignments focused on sustainable living and ecological responsibility.
The course featured eminent resource persons who addressed various aspects of environmental awareness and sustainability. Dr. Jean D’Cunha spoke on Integral Ecology and Eco Spirituality, highlighting the connection between environmental destruction and social injustice. Tallulah D’Silva conducted sessions on sustainable development and responsible consumption, including a practical eco-construction workshop in collaboration with the Tambdi Matti Foundation at the fields of the Chicalim Youth Farmers Club. Dr. Alvarinho Luis highlighted the realities of climate change and global warming, while Adv. Richard Almeida explained environmental laws and citizen participation in protecting natural resources. The concluding sessions by Sr. Melissa D’Souza and Rev. Dr. Bolmax Pereira encouraged participants to adopt sustainable lifestyles and become active “Green Guardians” within society.
Participants were required to attend all six sessions held every Tuesday from February 24 to March 31, 2026, either physically or online through YouTube, to qualify for the certificate jointly issued by the organizers. After each session, participants completed reflective questionnaires through Google Forms to strengthen their understanding of the topics discussed. They were also required to complete an environmental assignment promoting ecological responsibility and sustainable living, encouraging them to apply the lessons learned in their personal lives and communities.
The valedictory function of the course was held on May 9, 2026, beginning with a Holy Mass themed “Care for Creation, Our Mission Continues,” celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, Msgr. Simiao Purificaçao Fernandes, and concelebrated by Rev. Dr. Bolmax Pereira, Fr. Francis Xavier, and Fr. Pio Almeida. In his homily, the Bishop stressed that caring for creation is a sacred responsibility and urged participants to continue promoting sustainable living and ecological awareness.
The valedictory programme included the felicitation of resource persons, participant testimonials, and the screening of selected environmental assignments. Certificates of Completion were presented by Msgr. Simiao Purificaçao Fernandes to all participants who successfully completed the course requirements. The Eco Green Award for Best Assignment was presented to Cyrus Rodrigues, while Sanjay Shrungare was recognized for the First Course Registration. Caranzalem Parish received the award for maximum participation throughout the programme.
During the event, Rev. Fr. Bolmax Pereira announced that St. Anne Church had been designated the “Season of Creation” parish for the year in connection with the upcoming centenary of St. Francis of Assisi. Rev. Fr. Francis Rozario spoke about the global centenary celebrations declared by the Pope from January 2026 to January 2027 and recalled the inaugural Mass held on February 3 at St. Anne’s Church. A highlight of the programme was the inauguration of the Centenary Working Handbook by Msgr. Simiao Purificação Fernandes. Fr. Francis also shared details of upcoming initiatives, including the Muttbhor Tandul drive, parish pilgrimage of the statue of St. Francis of Assisi, Green Franciscan Homes, Ecology Quiz, and the Franciscan Ecology Restorers Course.
The Bishop delivered the valedictory address, encouraging all Green Guardians to continue their environmental mission with dedication and faith. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Rev. Dr. Bolmax Pereira, a collective Green Pledge by all participants, and an eco-friendly fellowship meal symbolizing sustainability, community living, and care for creation.
