VANCOUVER
The Goan community in Vancouver gathered for a candlelight prayer service for peace, harmony, and justice in Goa, at the St Nicholas Church, Langley-Vancouver, on May 2.
The strong turnout reflected the deep love and concern that Goans abroad continue to hold for their homeland.
The gathering was made possible through the initiative of Elroy Fernandes, along with the spiritual guidance of Fr Nixon D’Silva, parish priest at St Nicholas Church.
The atmosphere was serene and reflective, as participants came together in solidarity, holding candles as a symbol of hope and unity.
The prayer service was initiated following derogatory, provocative and hurtful comments against St Francis Xavier at a recent event at Vasco-Goa, sparking off outrage among people cutting across religious lines across the world.
The prayer service was led by Fr Nixon, who proclaimed the Word of God and offered a meaningful reflection.
In his message, he urged the community to remain steadfast in prayer and to continue seeking peace and harmony for Goa. Emphasising the power of collective prayer, he called on everyone to rise above negativity and take personal responsibility in fostering respect, understanding, and a more just and peaceful society.
A special highlight of the service was a prayer for peace in Goa, composed by Fr Nixon, which was prayed together by all present.
The service concluded with famous Konkani hymn ‘Sant Francisk Xaviera’, invoking the intercession of the beloved saint for Goa, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of hope and spiritual unity.
