PANAJI
The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman organised a special Christmas Outreach Programme for its church employees at the St Joseph Vaz Retreat Centre, Old Goa, on Tuesday morning, as a gesture of appreciation for their service to the church community.
The event brought together employees such as church office assistants, sacristans, cooks, grave diggers and gardeners, whose work supports the daily functioning of churches across Goa. Many of them work quietly without seeking attention, and were honoured for their dedication throughout the year.
The programme was attended by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, who addressed the gathering, and Auxiliary Bishop Simão Fernandes, who joined the celebrations and delivered the vote of thanks. Both bishops expressed their appreciation for the employees’ commitment and spoke about the true meaning of Christmas, highlighting values such as compassion, selflessness and service to others.
Cardinal Ferrao thanked the employees for their contributions, stating that through their hard work they support the Church and its community. He stressed the dignity of all forms of work and assured the employees that the Church respects them and the roles they perform.
Auxiliary Bishop Simão Fernandes acknowledged the Archbishop for starting the outreach programme four years ago and praised the employees for playing a vital role in the Church. He added that the faithful are grateful for their continued service.
The event began with a prayer service followed by a welcome address by the Archbishop. Participants later took part in fellowship games and shared a festive meal. Gifts and tokens of appreciation were also distributed to the employees.
The Cardinal and the Auxiliary Bishop personally interacted with the workers, thanking each one and recognising their individual roles in the life of the Church. Some employees also shared their personal experiences during the gathering, which was marked by a strong sense of gratitude and belonging.
The Christmas Outreach Programme is part of the Archdiocese’s efforts to recognise the contributions of people working in parishes and institutions. Such programmes are organised especially during the Christmas season, and the Archbishop and other church authorities make it a point to participate in these initiatives.
