The Museum of Christian Art (MoCA), Goa, took another significant step in strengthening international partnerships this July when its Curator, Ms. Natasha Fernandes, travelled to Vilnius, Lithuania for a networking visit to the Church Heritage Museum of Vilnius. Organized at the invitation of the Embassy of Lithuania in India, the visit aimed to provide an enriching opportunity to exchange knowledge, build professional relationships and explore new avenues of collaboration in the preservation and interpretation of Christian art and heritage.
On 17th July 2026, Ms. Natasha was welcomed to the Museum by its Director Ms. Rita Kumžienė and Historian Ms. Alina Pavasaryte. The visit began with an in-depth tour of the Museum’s permanent galleries, reserve collection, and conservation facilities providing valuable insight into Lithuania’s approach to the conservation, documentation and interpretation of ecclesiastical art. Conversations with members of the Museum’s staff provided a valuable opportunity to learn their approaches to collection care, documentation, exhibitions and public engagement.
A key highlight of the visit was the round table discussion Museum Conversations: Between Lithuania and India, which brought together museum professionals, heritage experts, diplomats and representatives of cultural institutions to reflect on the shared responsibility of preserving Christian Heritage.
The session featured presentations by Ms. Natasha Fernandes of the Museum of Christian Art, Goa and Ms. Alina Pavasaryte, of the Church Heritage Museum of Vilnius. Although separated by thousands of kilometres and shaped by distinct historical and cultural contexts, both museums share a common commitment to conserving sacred art, making it accessible to diverse audiences and ensuring that these collections continue to inspire future generations.
The discussion was moderated by, H.E. Diana Mickeviciene Ambassador of Lithuania to India and, H.E. Sigita Maslauskaite, Ambassador of Lithuania to the Holy See. The interactive exchange centred on museum practices, conservation challenges, public engagement and opportunities for future international cooperation.
The visit marked an important milestone in strengthening cultural ties between India and Lithuania and to serve as a foundation for future collaborations between the Museum of Christian Art, Goa and the Church Heritage Museum, Vilnius, encouraging the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices in the preservation of Christian art and heritage.
