The Catechetical Association of St. Thomas Church, Aldona organized a Spiritual Concert titled ‘Bhorvanxeachim yatrekaram’(Pilgrims of Hope) as part of the year of Jubilee 2025 at the Kala Academy on February 18, 2025.His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman was the Chief Guest and His Excellency Most Rev. Simiao Purificacao Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop was the Guest of Honour. Among the special guests were Fr. Henry Falcao (Episcopal Vicar for Central Zone of the Archdiocese), Fr. Marcelin Rodrigues (Director, Diocesan Catechetical Centre), Secretary to the Archbishop Fr. Joaquim Loiola Pereira, Fr.Mario Leitao (Dean of Aldona Deanery).
In his address the Cardinal encouraged the faithful to strengthen their relationship with Jesus and embrace the call to become pilgrims of Hope. He reflected on the inspiring lives of St. Thomas the Apostle, St Francis Xavier and St. Teresa of Kolkata. He said “This jubilee year is a God given opportunity to experience Jesus more deeply and proclaim him as our Hope”. He added “In this spiritual concert we witness how Jesus is the dawn of Hope. Many saints through their lives became shining stars of hope. “He appreciated and congratulated the Parish Vicar Fr. Tomas Lobo, Asst. Parish Priest Fr. Agnel Simoes, Catechists, Sunday school children, ‘Sweet voices of St. Thomas’ children’s choir, Parish choir, Youth and the parents for the beautiful presentation involving songs, dances, enactments and live music.
A special souvenir was released at the hands of the Cardinal. Master Euan Ferrao, Rosh D’cruz, Miss. Emmanuela Colaco and Miss Aileen Vaz were the narrators. Catechetical Coordinator Mrs. Sandhya Fernandes welcomed the gathering and thanked them. The event was led by the parish priest Fr. Tomas Lobo. Also present on the occasion was Adv. Carlos Ferreira, MLA of Aldona constituency, priests, religious and parishioners.
