PANAJI
Devotees began their Bhavartachi Yatra or Walking Pilgrimage from as early as 12.00 midnight. People moved in from three centres in the South and two in North and later walked from Bambolim to Sancoale.
"Since it is organised at the begining of the Lent season, it's a great help for me to enrich my spiritual journey focusing on penance and sacrifice. " said Natty Araujo of the Parish of St Matthias, Sao Mathias, Divar.
"It provides a significant opportunity for me to deepen my spiritual journey, focusing on concepts of penance and sacrifice. Reflecting on God's love and our response to it has been profoundly enriching. Walking alongside my fellow parishioners, engaging in the recitation of the rosary, hymn singing, and collective prayers for others have all contributed to a sense of joy and spiritual healing."
Natty, serving as the Animator of the Divine Mercy Group at St Matthias Parish, recalled her involvement in organizing adoration to the Blessed Sacrament as part of the Divine Mercy Movement within the Archdiocese.
"The significance of this event is heightened for me due to its location, where St Joseph Vaz, son of the soil and the Patron of our Archdiocese , wrote a letter of bondage to Mother Mary. Participating in the walking pilgrimage has allowed me and my family to experience the abundant blessings of God and draw closer to Him," she reflected.
Fr Walter De Sa, the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church in Panaji, believed that organizing the Walking Pilgrimage on the first Sunday of Lent provided a fitting entry into the Lenten Season.
"Our parishioners were well-prepared in advance regarding the beneficial effects and the biblical significance of pilgrimage," remarked Father Walter. The substantial turnout from various parts of Goa highlighted the communal aspect of communion and collaboration.
Both young and old parishioners expressed eagerness to partake in the walking pilgrimage and the accompanying liturgical services. Completing a 10-kilometer journey on foot was considered a genuine act of penance by them, leading to a spiritual enrichment in their lives, as shared by Father Walter.
Sr Monita Dias, a Cluny Sister based at the Cluny Convent in Vasco, reflected on her participation in the Walking Pilgrimage, expressing how the Adoration to the Blessed Sacrament and the Mass facilitated a profound closeness to Jesus for her. She described the act of placing intentions beneath the foot of the cross and offering them up to God as a beautiful and meaningful experience. Sr Monita, who serves as both a teacher and a counselor, emphasized Archbishop Ferrão significance of these spiritual practices in her life.
Alfredo Fernandes, a parishioner of St Sebastian's Church, Calvim, recounted his journey from Holy Cross Church, Bambolim, expressing initial uncertainty about being able to walk the 10 kilometers. However, the mantra "Let me walk for Jesus" instilled him with the courage to persevere. He marveled at the diverse participants, spanning generations and abilities, all united in the pilgrimage.
Alfredo noted the humble participation of Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, deeply engrossed in prayer without seeking attention. Reflecting on Jesus' journey carrying the cross and rising after falling thrice for salvation, Alfredo found renewed strength amidst fatigue. He appreciated the supportive volunteers and concluded that despite the challenges, the experience was enriching, marking another significant step in his spiritual journey.
Nelia Pereira, a catechist at Mother of God Church, Majorda, described her pilgrimage to Sancoale church as a deeply meaningful and spiritually enriching journey. She likened it to a form of meditation, bringing inner peace and a deeper self-understanding.
Nelia, a teacher at Mount Mary Higher Secondary School, Chinchinnim emphasized that travelling on foot to a sacred destination was a profound experience intertwined with prayer, introspection, and a connection with nature. The absence of distractions along the way allowed her to immerse herself in silence, providing space to listen to her inner voice and reflect on unanswered questions. Nelia pondered on how she could deepen her faith during the Lenten Season, renew her passion for her beliefs, and demonstrate love for Jesus and others through acts of penance. Reflecting on the experience, she concluded that it was truly worthwhile.
