Theme: Leadership that Heals, Nurtures and Inspires
Date:11th–12th July 2026
Venue: St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, Old Goa
The Diocesan Society of Education and St. Joseph Vaz Educational Society, successfully organized Positive Moves 2026, a two-day leadership formation programme for school heads and Educational leaders on 11th and 12th July 2026 at the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, Old Goa. The programme centred on the theme “Leadership that Heals, Nurtures and Inspires,” emphasizing compassionate, faith-filled and transformative leadership in Catholic education.
The programme commenced on 11th July with the arrival and registration of participants, followed by an ice-breaker session that fostered interaction and fellowship. Participants then gathered for a meaningful Prayer Service and Eucharistic Adoration, preparing themselves spiritually for the journey ahead.
The evening witnessed the Inaugural Ceremony of Positive Moves 2026, which was graced by the presence of His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Auxiliary Bishop Simião Purificação Fernandes, Fr. Henry Falcão, Episcopal Vicar for Education, Fr. Lucio Dias, President of the Diocesan Society of Education, Fr. Jesus N. Rodrigues, Secretary of the Diocesan Society of Education, and Fr. Mariano Dias, Fr. Joism de Souza and Fr. Linferd Fernandes, Assistant Secretaries of the Diocesan Society of Education. The dignitaries inspired the participants to embrace leadership rooted in service, compassion and hope. During the inaugural function, retired and retiring Heads of Institutions were felicitated in recognition of their dedicated and selfless service to Catholic education. The day concluded with dinner and a recreational session, strengthening the bonds of fraternity among the participants.
The second day began with Session I on “Conversation in the Spirit,” conducted by Auxiliary Bishop Simião Purificação Fernandes and Fr. Leo Fernandes. The session highlighted the importance of prayerful listening, discernment and synodality, encouraging participants to engage in meaningful dialogue guided by the Holy Spirit.
Session II, led by Dr. Vithoba Mhalkar, explored “The Emotional Climate of a School Begins at the Top,” stressing that the attitude, empathy and emotional intelligence of school leaders shape the culture and wellbeing of the entire institution.
After an interactive activity, Session III was presented by Dr. Fr. Ramiro Luis on “Raising Resilient Students in an Age of Anxiety and Compassion.” The session encouraged educators to nurture resilience while responding with compassion to the emotional challenges faced by today’s students.
The Heads prayerfully participated in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Fr. Kennet Teles, Episcopal Vicar for the South Zone of Archdiocese, Goa. The Eucharistic celebration reinforced the spiritual foundation of their vocation as Educators.
Following lunch, Session IV was conducted by Fr. Linferd Fernandes, who addressed “Teacher Burnout, Stress and Fatigue: The Silent Crisis in Schools.” The session shed light on the pressures faced by educators and proposed practical ways to promote wellbeing and create supportive school environments.
The programme concluded with a feedback session, where participants shared their experiences and key takeaways from the enriching programme. The Valedictory Function marked the successful completion of Positive Moves 2026, followed by tea before dispersal.
Positive Moves 2026 offered a rich blend of spiritual renewal, professional development and fellowship. It inspired educational leaders to become agents of healing, nurture the gifts of those entrusted to their care, and inspire hope through Christ-centred leadership in their respective institutions.
Report by:
Fr. Joism Benjamin de Souza
Asst. to the Secretary- DSE
