Six diocesan priests marked the Golden Jubilee of their priestly ordination in a spirit of gratitude and celebration at the Holy Spirit Church, Margao, on Thursday.The solemn Eucharist was presided over by Archbishop of Goa Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, with Auxiliary Bishop Simião Fernandes delivering the homily. Several priests concelebrated the Eucharistic Celebration.The Eucharistic celebration honoured Fr Walter de Sá of Santacruz (serving as a Chaplain of Our Lady of Candelaria, Alto Porvorim); Fr Lino de Sá of Betalbatim (serving at Our Lady of Grace as on the Staff); Fr Gualberto de Souza of Cunchelim (serving as a Chaplain at Our lady of Piety Chapel, Quitula-Aldona); Fr Diogo M. Fernandes of Paroda, Fr Albino Mendonça of Soccorro and Fr Agnelo Quadros of Fatorda.They had been ordained 50 years ago, along with three other companions, making a total of nine ordinands in 1976. While this Jubilee was a moment of celebration for the living, it was also marked by prayerful remembrance of their brother priests—Fr Jose Menino Rodrigues, Fr Tomas d’Aquino Sequeira, and Fr Caetano Piedade Cardoso—who have since been called to their eternal reward.In his homily, Bishop Simião Fernandes reflected on the dignity of the ministerial priesthood as a participation in Christ’s mission as the Good Shepherd, who knows, seeks, and cares for his flock.He noted that the jubilarians, through 50 years of faithful ministry, have proclaimed the Gospel and served their people generously, bearing witness to the enduring grace of Holy Orders.Developing his reflection through the acronym ‘GOLD’, Bishop Fernandes offered a rich spiritual insight into priestly life, with the Gift of God’s Grace (G), Offering of Life in Service (O), Love of God and Neighbour (L) and Dedication in Trials and Joys (D).Acknowledging the challenges inherent in priestly life, Bishop Fernandes commended the priests for their steadfast dedication, remaining faithful amidst both difficulties and consolations.Speaking on the occasion, Cardinal Ferrão congratulated the jubilarians and thanked them for their 50 years of dedicated service to the Church in Goa.He noted that “the story of our divine call begins at home,” and expressed gratitude to their families for their constant support and sacrifices.Fr Romano Rodrigues was the liturgical commentator, while Seby Fernandes led the liturgical signing. In a moving gesture of gratitude, Fr. Walter de Sá later expressed thanks on behalf of all the jubilarians.
