In a historic milestone for the Catholic community in Sindhudurg, a new Cathedral dedicated to Our Lady of Milagres was inaugurated with a solemn Dedication Ceremony on May 9, 2026. It was marked by intense spiritual fervor bringing together hierarchy, clergy, and thousands of lay faithful.
The memorable celebration commenced with the formal inauguration of the cathedral building by His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, in the presence of Rt. Rev. Agnelo Pinheiro, Bishop of Sindhudurg. Following the inaugural rites, the Eucharistic Celebration with the Liturgical Dedication Rite was presided over by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman.
The celebration was a grand manifestation of ecclesial communion. Joining the two cardinals and the Bishop of Sindhudurg, were Rt. Rev. Alwyn Baretto, Bishop Emeritus of Sindhudurg along with Bishops from neighboring dioceses namely Rt. Rev. John Rodrigues, Archbishop of Bombay, Rt. Rev. Simon Almeida, Bishop of Poona, Rt. Rev. Derek Fernandes, Bishop of Belgaum, Rt. Rev. Malcolm Sequeira Bishop of Amravati, Rt. Rev. Simiao Fernandes Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, Rt. Rev. Lourdes Daniel Bishop Emeritus of Nashik, alongside approximately 100 priests who concelebrated the Eucharist. More than 3,000 faithful filled the cathedral and its precincts, creating an atmosphere of spiritual communion, joy and deep prayerfulness.
In his homily, Cardinal Filipe Neri reminded the assembly of the true nature of a place of worship. While acknowledging the beauty and architectural magnificence of the new structure, he emphasized that the true Church extends far beyond mere bricks and mortar. He emphasized that the heart of the Church lies in the living community of believers, called to be vibrant witnesses of faith, hope, and love in society.
After the homily the solemn rite of the deposition of the relics of St. Teresa of Kolkata (Secondary Patroness of the Diocese) in the Altar was conducted. This was followed by the prayer of dedication, anointing and incensing of the altar and walls of the Church and the lighting of the Altar and the Cathedral.
After the liturgical celebration, a short felicitation ceremony ensued. In his message to the community, Cardinal Gracias highlighted the need for building up the living community of believers.
In his message to the faithful, Cardinal Ferrao emphasized the special connection that the Diocese of Sindhudurg has with The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman as it was initially part of the Archdiocese before being handed over to the Diocese of Poona. He also pointed out how the Diocese of Sindhudurg has returned back to its mother’s lap when it became Suffragan to the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman in 2006. He also thanked the 1st Bishop of the Diocese of Sindhudurg, Bishop Emeritus Alwyn Baretto, for all his efforts in tirelessly working to develop the Diocese of Sindhudurg.
During this Felicitation ceremony Mr. Brian Soares, the Architect, Mr. Milind, the Contractor and engineer, Fr. Milet Dsouza, the Rector of the Cathedral, Fr. Felix Lobo and other civil and ecclesiastical dignitaries were felicitated. This Cathedral stands not only as a monumental place of worship but as a testament to the growth and vitality of the Diocese of Sindhudurg, serving as a beacon of faith, hope and unity for years to come.
