MARGAO
It was 3.30 pm on Saturday. Chaplain of St Francis Xavier, Guirdolim Fr James Torres was bracing up to go out for house blessings when he received a call from a priest friend informing that Fr Simiao Fernandes has been elevated as the Auxiliary Bishop of Goa Archdiocese.
Fr Torres’ joy knew no bounds as the son of Guirdolim has received the honour and privilege to serve the Goa Diocese as the Auxiliary Bishop. As he set out for the house blessings, Fr Torres immediately headed to Fr Simiao’s house, just a stone throw’s away from the Chapel, to share the joyous moment with his sisters and relatives.
Since then, the phones of Fr Simiao’s sisters have not stopped ringing even as a stream of visitors paid a visit to the house to offer congratulations as well as prayers for the new Auxiliary Bishop.
“This is indeed a joyous moment not only for Fr Simiao’s family, but the whole village of Guirdolim. After blessing the house, I offered prayers for the new Auxiliary Bishop. We also remembered Fr Simiao’s mother Ana Santana, who was a devout woman. Fr Simiao’s family members, including sisters are all actively involved in the Chapel activities,” Fr Torres said.
Since the time the Bishop Palace made the announcement of Fr Simiao’s elevation as the Auxiliary Bishop, his sister Mary’s phone has not stopped ringing. While accepting the congratulatory messages, she requested the people to keep Fr Simiao in their prayers.
Reacting to the news, Guirdolim Sarpanch Sonia Fernandes said it is indeed a proud moment for the people of Guirdolim. “We are confident that his guidance will continue to significantly impact the spiritual growth of our nation. Our prayers are with the auxiliary Bishop-elect, and may God’s grace continue to guide and inspire him in this significant chapter of his journey. He will use his many gifts with generosity and faithfulness to serve God and to lead his people in Archdiocese of Goa and Daman and beyond,” Sonia said.
Former Sarpanch Agostinho Antao said it is indeed a joyous moment to witness a fellow villager from Guirdolim being bestowed such an honour by the Holy Father.
Guirdolm panchayat member, Franky Rodrigues offered his congratulations to Fr Simiao, who has been like a big brother to him on becoming the Auxiliary Bishop of Goa. “Fr Simiao’s new role will bring blessings to our parish and beyond. We’re all so proud and we wish Fr Simiao the best in his journey,” Franky added.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, who represents Cuncolim constituency, has extended his best wishes to Fr Simiao in service to God and humanity.
