400-year milestone blends faith, tradition, and care for nature
VASCO
As part of the ongoing 400-year celebration of the Christian faith in Chicalim, parishioners of Chicalim participated in a ‘Xristti Utsov – Let’s Celebrate Nature’ event at the Chicalim Panchayat Hall recently. Organised by the Assoi Dongri and Regina Mundi sectors of St Francis Xavier’s Church, Chicalim, the event was a tribute to God’s creation, calling for both celebration and responsibility in caring for nature.
The event was preceded by a two-day coconut palm art workshop on July 18 and 19 at the Panchayat Hall. Led by Sabina Da Cunha from Parra, the workshop aimed to reconnect participants with nature through the revival of “Mollam Making”, a traditional art she learnt from her grandmother.
A volunteer with DRAG and Secretary of the Haemophilia Federation of Goa, Da Cunha is passionate about preserving this eco-art by teaching and promoting it. The handcrafted pieces from the workshop were later used as decorations for the main event, highlighting the hidden artistry of the coconut palm.
The main event on July 20 began with a variety of off-stage and on-stage competitions, all centred around the themes of nature and ecology. Children delighted in a salad decoration competition, while adults participated in the innovative wild fresh “Fulam ani Panna Mandopp” contests—creatively using natural elements to craft visually stunning displays.
Poster and slogan competitions added a thoughtful and artistic element, allowing participants to express their environmental awareness and commitment through both visuals and words.
This was followed by sector-wise cultural performances, each conveying a powerful message: to love and celebrate nature, while also taking on the responsibility of safeguarding creation.
Participants ranged from children to the elderly, showcasing their talents through street play, skits, dances, mime, song, fashion show, and ramp walk—all celebrating the beauty, balance, and fragility of the natural world.
The event was graced by guests, including representatives from the Diocesan Commission for Ecology (DCE-Goa), Goencho Ekvott, the Pallottine Fathers, the Christian Brothers, Sabina Da Cunha, Raj Bhandare, Joyce Teles, and Anita Fernandes.
According to Chicalim Parish Priest Fr Bolmax Pereira, ‘Xristti Utsov’ was more than just a celebration—it was a call to consciousness, blending faith, tradition, art, and ecology.
“It reminded the community of the deep connection between spiritual life and environmental care, while giving space for expression, learning, and unity,” said Fr Pereira.
“As part of the 400-year celebration of Christianity in Chicalim, this event will be remembered as a moment that brought together creativity, tradition, and stewardship in one beautiful offering,” he added.
