PANAJI
Archbishop of Goa and Daman Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao has stated that hope keeps people going in various types of journeys in their lives.
Cardinal Ferrao, who is also patron of the Pilar Theological Institute, was delivering his homily at the Eucharistic celebration in the chapel of the All India Mission Seminary, after inaugurating the new Academic and Formation Year 2025“26.
In his homily, the prelate elaborated on the annual theme of the new seminary year “ Journeying with hope: Encounter, Fellowship and Proclamation. “Like the disciples of Emmaus, we may sometimes feel lost, discouraged or unsure of where God is. But Christ walks with us, he draws near, speaks to our hearts and renews our hope. In life, we undertake various types of journeys, and in all these journeys it is hope that keeps us going,” said Cardinal Ferrao.
Later, Fr Norman Almeida, Rector of the Mission Seminary, welcomed the gathering at the Br Albert’s Hall for the inaugural programme and said the event marks the beginning of yet another new year for learning, growth, and spiritual enrichment.
During the programme, the Handbook for the Year 2025“26 was released by Cardinal Ferrao, while the annual journal Euntes Docete was released by Fr Nazareth Fernandes, Superior General of the Society of Pilar. This was followed by the unveiling of the logo and the theme of the new seminary year.
An important aspect of the new academic year is the Lectio Brevis “ the inaugural lecture. Fr John Bennet, who has completed his Licentiate in Liturgy from Sant’ Anselmo University, Rome, presented on the topic Christian Initiation in the Contemporary Scenario. This session was moderated by Rev. Dr Ivon Almeida, professor at the Pilar Theological Institute.
In his lecture, Fr Bennet offered a theological and liturgical significance of Christian initiation within the Catholic tradition, particularly as it unfolds in the pluralistic and richly diverse cultural context of India.
Fr Bennet said pastoral movements such as the Kristu Bhaktam Movement, Ashram spirituality, and Anubhava theology offer culturally creative ways of nurturing Christian discipleship and spiritual growth.
Later, Cardinal Ferrao and Fr Nazareth Fernandes spoke on the occasion and encouraged the seminarians to journey with hope as they embark on yet another journey of the beginning of a new academic and formation year.
As part of the programme, the seminarians sang two chorals (Homeward Bound and Naye Bol) and played two instrumental pieces (Minuet in G and Sadbhav) under the baton of Fr Elvis Fernandes. Seminarian Aston Carvalho compered the programme while seminarian Biswajit proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the Pilar Anthem.
