The Thanksgiving Mass and Certificate Distribution Ceremony for the Bible Course was held on 15 May 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at the historic Sé Cathedral. Participants from the parishes of Calangute, Goa Velha, and Old Goa attended the celebration. The Bible Course was organised by the respective parishes and conducted by the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate Goa and Daman (DCBA).
The Holy Mass was celebrated by Most Rev. Simião P. Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman and concelebrated by Can. Rosario Oliveira, Parish Priest of Old Goa; Fr. Jason K. Fernandes, Assistant Parish Priest of Old Goa; Fr. Peter M. Fernandes, Assistant Parish Priest of Calangute; Fr. Reuel Fernandes, Assistant Parish Priest of Goa Velha; and Fr. Mariano D’Costa, Director of DCBA. The liturgy was meaningfully coordinated by members of the three participating parishes, while the Cathedral choir prayerfully animated the celebration. The theme of the celebration was: “No One Will Take Your Joy from You” (Jn 16:22).
Following Holy Communion, Auxiliary Bishop Simião distributed certificates to 212 participants who successfully completed the Bible Course. Fr. Mariano, on behalf of DCBA, felicitated the Auxiliary Bishop, the priests, and the coordinating teams from the three parishes with tokens of appreciation in recognition of their dedicated service and support throughout the course.
Ms. Rhea Mascarenhas, Coordinator of the Old Goa Bible Course, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the organisation of the Thanksgiving Mass, while Fr. Rosario conveyed words of thanks on behalf of the three parish priests. In his concluding remarks, Auxiliary Bishop Simião appreciated the sincere efforts, dedication, and enthusiastic participation of everyone present and encouraged all to live by the Word of God each day.
The programme concluded with refreshments, fostering a spirit of fellowship and thanksgiving among all present.
Report prepared by Ms. Rhea Mascarenhas, Old Goa
