A significant joint meeting of the Executive Committee of the Diocesan Commission for Ecology (DCE) and the Parish Jubilee Committee of St. Anne’s Parish, Ponda was held on Tuesday, 28th April 2026, marking an important milestone in the Archdiocese’s ecological mission.
The gathering commenced with an opening prayer, followed by a warm welcome from Parish Priest Fr. Francis Rozario OFM, who also facilitated an introduction of participants.
Review of Ongoing Ecological Initiatives:
Members of the DCE Executive Committee—Valucio Rodrigues, Alisha Pereira, and Mabel Noronha—presented a comprehensive review of ecological initiatives undertaken in the Season of Creation parishes of Sto Estevam, Benaulim, Candolim, and Tilamol. These included collaborative efforts with local Panchayats and grassroots ecological movements.
* Mabel highlighted biodiversity conservation efforts, particularly in protecting bird species, along with her engagement with various ecological NGOs.
* Valucio Rodrigues shared insights on the restoration effort of River Sal, coconut cultivation initiatives, and learnings from a national ecological conference in Shillong.
* Alisha elaborated on sustainable rice cultivation in Tilamol and the impactful partnership with the Chicalim Farmers Club.
Fr. Bolmax Pereira, Convener of the DCE, provided an overview of ecological initiatives at the Archdiocesan, regional (Western Region), and national (CBCI & CCBI) levels, underlining the Church’s growing commitment to care for creation.
Global Vision Rooted in Franciscan Spirituality:
Fr. Francis Rozario shared the vision of celebrating the Season of Creation from a “Global to Local” perspective, especially significant as part of the 8th Centenary of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology.
Historic Declaration : A key highlight of the meeting was the official declaration of St. Anne’s Parish, Ponda as a “Season of Creation 2026 Parish”, announced by Fr. Bolmax Pereira on behalf of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman.
The occasion also marked the release of a commemorative logo celebrating 800 years of the Transitus (passing) of St. Francis of Assisi, symbolizing a renewed commitment to ecological stewardship.
Parish-Level Initiatives and Community Engagement
The Parish Jubilee Committee members with Fr. Hemant , Fr. Anil, Dr. Dolly, Xavier Fernandes, and Ms. Tina—presented several ongoing and upcoming initiatives:
* SCC Engagement Program: Weekly visits of the statue of St. Francis of Assisi to Small Christian Communities every Tuesday
* “Handful of Rice” Initiative: Inspired by practices in Mizoram, encouraging families to contribute towards social outreach
* Franciscan Green Homes Initiative: Promoting eco-conscious living through cultivation of medicinal plants, fruit-bearing trees, ornamental gardens, and care for animals
* Youth Eco Ambassador Program: Formation of youth leaders through hybrid mode training programs focused on ecological responsibility
* Weekly Adoration Initiatives: Strengthening spiritual preparation for the centenary celebrations
Digital Evangelisation and Media Collaboration
Recognizing the power of digital media, the parish aims to actively engage youth in creating ecological awareness through reels, short films, essays, and social media campaigns.
Discussions were also held on strategic media partnerships with Catholic and secular platforms, including Atmadarshan TV, CCRTV, and other regional and international networks, to amplify the Season of Creation theme for 2026:
“Living Waters” Preparations are underway for a series of liturgical and community events at the Parish, Deanery, and Archdiocesan levels from September 1 to October 4, 2026, aligning with the global Season of Creation observance.
The meeting concluded with a strong sense of unity and purpose, reaffirming the Church’s mission to integrate faith and ecology. St. Anne’s Parish, Ponda now stands as a beacon of hope and action, embodying the call of St. Francis of Assisi to care for our common home.
Report prepared by Kennedy D silva
