The Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities was celebrated with great enthusiasm on 30th November 2025 at the 5:00 p.m. Novena Mass of St. Francis Xavier at Old Goa. The celebration brought together hundreds of Persons with Disabilities along with their families, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
The concelebrated mass was presided over by Fr. Maverick Fernandes, who also preached the homily. In his reflection, Fr. Fernandes clearly explained the various forms of disabilities and highlighted the distinction between disability and a mental illness, the latter often being treatable with appropriate medication. Referring to the Circular of His Eminence Felipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Fr. Maverick emphasized the importance of respect, dignity, and proper terminology when addressing persons with disabilities. He urged the faithful to involve them meaningfully in church and community activities, to make all spaces accessible and provide them equal opportunities so that they are mainstreamed into society.
Fr. Maverick stressed the importance of obtaining a disability certificate, which enables individuals to benefit from various government schemes, support services, and facilities. He also highlighted the commendable work undertaken by several Caritas Goa projects and institutions dedicated to education, employment, and empowerment, including Divya Sadan, the Deafblind Centres, and St. Xavier’s Training-cum-Production Centre.
He also appreciated the efforts of other institutions that work tirelessly for the betterment of persons with disabilities and their families. Acknowledging the many challenges involved in caring for a person with a disability, he urged the gathering to offer their support, understanding, and solidarity to these families, reminding everyone that such care requires immense patience, love, and strength.
The celebration was enriched by the presence of Ms Josephine Fernandes, who served as the sign language interpreter for the benefit of the hearing-impaired community. The choir for the Mass was beautifully led by the students and staff of St. Xavier’s Training cum Production Centre, adding to the prayerful and inclusive spirit of the occasion.
Fr. Rosario Walter D’Souza.
