A file photo of Goans enacting the Passion of Christ at Southall-London.
LONDON
The Goan community have been participating in prayers, retreats, services and different other activities while observing the season of Lent all over the UK.
WEMBLEY
Social activist and candidate of the Labour Party in Wembley Hill ward for Brent Council elections, Angela Joyce De Souza said the large number of Goan parishioners at St Joseph’s Church in Wembley are observing a period of spiritual growth and renewal during Lent.
“Through various activities and traditions, the community have come together to deepen their faith, reflect on their values and prepare for the coming of Easter. From attending special Masses and prayer services to participating in Stations of the Cross, parishioners of St Joseph Church are embracing the true spirit of Lent,” said Joyce.
Many Goans participated in a Live Way of the Cross after the 6.30 pm Mass on February 28, which was supported by members of the Society of St Vincent de Paul.
“People came to experience this moving, dramatic and very vivid production of the betrayal, trial and crucifixion of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” said Joyce.
She said many Goan families are observing fast and abstinence, with some choosing to give up non-vegetarian food and other luxuries for the duration of Lent.
“Few of the community members that I know are also focusing on donations and charity work during this time, demonstrating their commitment to serving others,” she said.
Joyce said the Stations of the Cross are held every Friday at 11.30 and at 6 pm. As the Holy Week approaches, the community gathers in large numbers for the Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services.
“The church is filled with parishioners and visitors, creating a vibrant and solemn atmosphere. Many volunteers, including enthusiastic youth volunteers, lend a helping hand with seating arrangements, hospitality, and other tasks, ensuring a smooth and meaningful experience for all.”
“The community comes together for Lenten dinners and soup suppers, organised by the Justice and Peace committee of the St Joseph Church, promoting a sense of camaraderie and spiritual growth.”
According to Joyce, one of the highlights of the Church's Lenten observance this year was the performance of traditional motets, including the poignant ‘Motet Sanz Paroles’ (Without Lyrics), which added a touch of solemn beauty to the services.
The Motet Sanz Paroles organised by the Goan Chaplaincy was held on March 1 and was attended by people in larger numbers. It was a sacred Lenten gathering of prayer, reflection and choral meditation led by all the Mass Centre Choir.
Joyce expressed a heartfelt gratitude to Fr.Renato.
“The Church's ‘Blazing Youth’ group and other youth activities also provide opportunities for young people to engage in reflective activities and Bible studies. The youth group event created a film, 'Confession', during this Lenten season,” said Joyce.
“Eucharistic adoration, confessions, talks, and retreats provide moments for quiet reflection and spiritual renewal. There was a Lenten Evening Retreat on February 19 by a team led by Fr Joseph Edattu VC, Director of the Divine Retreat Centre, Ramsgate, U.K.”
She informed that the annual Lenten retreat from March 13 to 15, led by Fr Pius Mathew CMI, will focus on the foundation of spiritual life.
“Through these activities, Goans in Wembley journey through Lent in prayer, reflection, and service, demonstrating their commitment to their faith and community,” said Joyce.
SOUTHALL
Mark Silva informed that the youth of St Anselm’s Church, Southall, have been making an impact in the parish community during Lent through the St Anselm’s Rising Youth Ministry (SARYM).
A file photo of Goans enacting the Passion of Christ at Southall-London.
“Rooted in faith, culture, and fellowship, SARYM brings together young people from predominantly South Asian backgrounds, with a strong representation from the Goan community. United by shared values and traditions, the group provides a welcoming space where young parishioners can deepen their spiritual journey while celebrating their cultural heritage,” said Mark.
“This Lenten season, SARYM has been actively participating in a special reflection series titled ‘Youth in the Wilderness’. Meeting every Thursday at 6 pm, the sessions offer young people the opportunity to pause, reflect, and grow spiritually during this sacred period of preparation.”
“Through prayer, discussion, and shared experiences, the youth explore themes of sacrifice, faith, and renewal, strengthening both their personal relationship with God and their bonds with one another.”
Mark said a major highlight of the Lenten activities will be the live enactment of the Passion of Christ titled ‘His Love, Our Hope’.
“The youth will present this powerful dramatisation on March 20, 21 and 22 after the 6.30 pm service at St Anselm’s Church, and again on March 28 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church at Hayes.”
“This moving portrayal reflects their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to sharing the message of Christ’s love and sacrifice with the wider community. Through faith-filled initiatives and active participation, SARYM continues to inspire and lead, embodying the spirit of youth in action at St Anselm’s Church, Southall,” Mark added.
SWINDON
Natasha Vas said the Goan community enters a season of reflection, prayer, and togetherness during Lent in Swindon.
“For Lent, our parish gathers for Mass, where we sing the traditional Lenten hymns that set a tone of humility and renewal. Throughout the season, we hold special retreats that help families and young people deepen their faith,” said Natasha.
A file photo of Goans taking part in Lenten services at Swindon-UK.
“One of the most meaningful traditions is the Stations of the Cross, held twice a week. We also take the Stations outside the church—into the park or car park—allowing everyone to walk with Christ in a more tangible way.”
“This year, the outdoor Stations of the Cross will take place at Holy Rood Church on March 14 and at St Mary’s Catholic Church on March 21, with many young children to carry the Cross from one station to the next, experiencing a small part of Jesus’ journey.”
“As Holy Week approaches, we celebrate Palm Sunday, followed by Maundy Thursday evening Mass, which includes the washing of the feet of the twelve apostles and quiet adoration late into the night. On Good Friday, we pray the Stations of the Cross in the morning and gather again for the 3 pm service. Easter Saturday begins with the Easter Vigil, where candles fill the church with light and the holy water is blessed, leading into the tradition of blessing homes in the week that follows.”
