St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, witnessed a deeply moving evening of faith, music, dance and drama with the presentation of PIETA, a grand musical reflecting on the life of Mother Mary and the many challenges she encountered with courage, faith and resilience.
The programme was honoured by the presence of Most Rev. Dr. Simiao Purificacao Fernandes, Bishop of Goa and Daman, as the Chief Guest. The Principal Ms. Ursula Barreto , the Vice Principals, Prof. Filipe Rodrigues e Melo and Ms Sandra Fernandes and the ex-principals of the college, Rev Dr. Walter De Sa, and Prof Fr. Jerome D’Silva were present. The Hon’ble MLA of Aldona Mr Carlos Ferreira was also present for the occasion, along with priests, religious, parents, students, teachers, well-wishers and members of the community.
The script was finely written by a student of St. Xavier’s College Ms. Rachel Nazareth, bringing together the human and spiritual dimensions of Mary’s journey. The production was directed by Mr.Worrel D’Souza, whose direction brought together the various artistic elements into a cohesive and powerful presentation. The entire concept of PIETA was conceived by Dr. Fr. Ramiro Luis, with the intention of presenting Mother Mary’s resilience to and through the youngsters with music, dance, drama and faith. Ms Gabrielle Nair led the soulful choir and Ms Gresal De Souza choreographed the graceful dances.
From the opening moments, the Ark Hall was gripped in awe. The powerful combination of music, choreography, drama, narration and visual presentation created an atmosphere that was not merely artistic, but deeply spiritual. The audience was taken through the joys, sorrows, struggles and triumphs of Mother Mary, allowing her journey to speak to the struggles faced by every human person.
PIETA brought together nearly 180 students, teachers and non-teaching staff, who contributed as actors, singers, dancers, musicians, narrators, artists, technicians, stage managers, volunteers and members of the various creative teams.
The musical also became a celebration of the spirit of AICUF and St Xavier’s College—a space where young people are encouraged to discover their gifts, take responsibility, work together and use their talents for something greater than themselves.
The evening was a testimony to what can happen when faith finds expression through the creativity and commitment of young people. PIETA was not simply a performance; it became a moment of prayer, reflection and encounter. Through Mother Mary’s resilience, the audience was reminded that suffering does not have the final word, and that even in the darkest moments, God continues to work silently and faithfully.
The overwhelming response of the audience, the atmosphere of silence and awe in the Ark Hall, and the appreciation received after the presentation were a fitting testimony to the impact of the evening.
PIETA became, in every sense, a celebration of faith, resilience, talent and grace—an evening in which the story of one Mother touched the hearts of an entire community and a lifetime memory for those on and back stage.
