PANAJI
The Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities was celebrated with great fervour at the 5 pm Novena Mass of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa on November 30. The celebration brought together hundreds of persons with disabilities and their families, creating an inclusive atmosphere.
The concelebrated Mass was presided over by Caritas Goa Director Fr Maverick Fernandes, who also preached the homily. In his reflection, he explained the various forms of disabilities and highlighted the difference between disability and mental illness, noting that the latter is often treatable with proper medication.
Referring to a circular by Cardinal Felipe Neri Ferrão, Fr Fernandes emphasised respect, dignity and correct terminology when addressing persons with disabilities. He urged the faithful to involve them meaningfully in church and community activities, make all spaces accessible and provide equal opportunities.
He stressed the importance of obtaining a disability certificate to access government schemes and services. He also highlighted the work of Caritas Goa projects such as Divya Sadan, the Deafblind Centres and St Xavier’s Training-cum-Production Centre.
The Mass included sign language interpretation by Josephine Fernandes and a choir led by students and staff of St Xavier’s Training-cum-Production Centre.
