the goan I network
OLD GOA
Calling upon the need to maintain harmony in the ‘beautiful State of Goa’, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighted the concept of ‘sarva dharma sama bhava,’ embodying the equality of destination of paths followed by all religions and urged everyone to live in peace and solidarity.
Sawant was addressing a gathering on his maiden visit to Pilar as chief minister, where he interacted with cardinal Oswald Gracias of the Bombay Archdiocese, who is one of eight advisers to Pope Francis. The cardinal was in Pilar to preside over the Pilar theological consultation.
The chief minister expressed happiness on meeting cardinal Gracias and in their meeting, they expressed their common desire and efforts made to maintain peace and harmony. The chief minister highlighted the concept of ‘sarva dharma sama bhava,’ a concept embodying the equality the destination of paths followed by all religions and urged everyone to live in peace and solidarity.
“Let us maintain the harmony in the beautiful Goa,” said Sawant.
Sawant said he had a great desire to visit Pilar and felt happy and peaceful on visiting the sacred hillock.
Speaking of the whole world as a family which applies to Goa, Sawant lauded the Society of Pilar for doing great service to the poor and marginalised in the remotest parts of India.
He assured his support and collaboration in everything good that is taken up in the State.
Cardinal Gracias also expressed similar sentiments of joy on meeting the chief minister and appreciated him for his yeoman service in Goa.
On the occasion, the chief minister inaugurated a conference hall, which was blessed by cardinal Gracias at the Pilar Animation Centre. Bishop Lawrence Pius of Dharampuri, St Andre MLA Francisco Silveira, Agassaim sarpanch Xavier Gracias, provincials and major superiors of the Society of Pilar were also present at the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Superior General of the Society of Pilar Fr Seby Mascarenhas, sfx, said “the Society of Pilar is the face of Goa serving in different parts of India among the poor and marginalised, spreading the ethos of harmony and peace. We need to treasure and maintain these values and ethos.”
