Stella Maris Chapel, Miramar, was solemnly elevated to the status of a Church on April 15, 2026, marking a historic and grace-filled milestone for the local Catholic community.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Eminence, Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, in the presence of the Rev. Frs. Fr. Romeo Monteiro, Chancellor, Fr. Francisco Dias, Panjim deanery Dean, Fr. Zeferino D’souza the First parochial Administrator of Stella Maris Church, Fr. Edmund Barretto, Parish Priest of St Inez, Fr. Joaquim Loiola Pereira, Secretary to the Archbishop of Goa, the former Chaplains of Stella Maris Chapel, the clergy, religious, Rohit Monserrate, The Mayor of Panjim, Mr. Surendra Furtado ex mayor of Panjim, distinguished guests, and a large gathering of the faithful.
In his homily the Archbishop highlighted that a parish is a Living church and reminded the faithful that every parish is a privileged environment where the faithful gather to grow in faith, to live the mystery of ecclesial communion and to take part in the churches mission. That we need to nourish our faith through community prayer, all sacraments specially the Holy Eucharist. Secondly, we are called to live in fellowship of Love, Care, Mercy, Forgiveness in our families and community as a whole, finally that we share in the mission of Jesus to be witnesses of His Love, peace and channels of forgiveness. He summarised saying that we need to be witnesses of Jesus, rooted in faith, growing in fellowship and spreading God’s Love
What began as a humble chapel under St. Inez Parish has, over the years, grown into a vibrant and faith-filled community. Today, Stella Maris Church, the 175th Parish of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, stands as a testament to unwavering faith, silent sacrifices, and the dedicated service of chaplains, parish leaders, and parishioners.
The Past Chaplains who worked in Miramar were:
1989 – Fr. Arnaut Pinto (Priest-in-charge)
1995 – Fr. Vasco do Rego (Chaplain)
1999 – Fr. Mousinho Ataíde (Chaplain)
2004 – Fr. Romualdo Robin Rodrigues (Chaplain)
2009 – Fr. Kenneth Barretto Teles (Chaplain)
2015 – Fr. Jorge Fernandes (Priest-in-charge)
2015 – Fr. Daniel Agnelo Pereira (Chaplain)
2016 – Fr. Leslie Bosco Rego (Chaplain)
2017 – Fr. Barry Cardozo (Chaplain)
2021 – Fr. Zeferino D’Souza (Chaplain)
2026 – Fr. Zeferino D’Souza (Parochial Administrator)
The erection letter was read by Fr. Romeo Monteiro and the minutes were signed by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao
This elevation signifies not only the growth of a physical structure but also the deepening of faith, unity, and identity among the people of Miramar and the wider Goan Catholic community.
Speaking on the occasion, Rev. Fr. Zeferino D’souza the first Parochial Administrator of the newly erected Parish of Miramar, expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating that this milestone is “the fruit of years of unwavering faith, commitment, and the collective efforts of past and present Priests of St Inez Church, past chaplains, priest-in-charge, the past and present countless faithful, benefactors, and well-wishers.”
He also acknowledged the guidance and support of Church leadership, clergy, parish council members, Catechists, youth and all those who helped make this long-cherished dream a reality.
The Archbishop Congratulated the Parochial administrator Fr. Zeferino D’souza, the Parishioners and all previous chaplains for this great milestone of faith and invited the faithful to emulate Mother Mary, Star of the Sea who will guide their journey of faith. Fr. Edmund Antao the Parish Priest also conveyed his congratulatory words and best wishes to the Parishioners of Miramar.
A token of appreciation was given to the previous chaplains of Stella Maris appreciating their dedicated service to the Chapel.
A coffee table book consisting messages and past memories of the Chapel was released, commemorating the occasion.
As Stella Maris Church begins this new chapter, Guided by Our Lady Stella Maris, it is envisioned as a beacon of prayer, peace, and service, continuing to guide generations in faith and love.
