The new academic year 2025–2026 began on a spiritual note with a Inaugural mass celebrated on 9th June, 2025 at St. Francis Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Siolim as part of the Jubilee celebration. The theme for this year’s Mass was “Pilgrims of Hope”, reflecting the school’s vision of journeying forward with faith, courage, and hope.
The Eucharistic celebration was organized collaboratively by the staff and students, who came together in prayer to seek God’s blessings for the upcoming academic year. The main celebrant was Headmaster Fr. Dilip Tete with the Manager Fr. Edal kumar as the con-celebrant. In his homily Fr. Dilip beautifully explained the meaning of being a “pilgrim of hope” in today’s world—encouraging the school community to walk in faith, persevere through challenges, and spread hope to others. He also said we cannot be self reliant and we need to depend on God who is our Hope for hope does not disappoint us.
The Eucharistic celebration began with a meaningful introduction. The readings, intercessions, and offertory were done by the students, guided by the teachers. The choir, composed of teachers uplifted the atmosphere with melodious hymns that echoed the spirit of hope and unity.
Special prayers were offered for the school management, staff members and students. The celebration also included offering of cake as a symbol of transformation with simple ingredients made into something new nourishing our hope that the Lord is always at work renewing us and making all things new.
As the school embarks on a new academic journey, the Inaugural Mass reminded everyone to remain hopeful and faithful, no matter the circumstances—truly living as “Pilgrims of Hope”.