THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
The Society of the Missionaries of St Francis Xavier, popularly known as the Society of Pilar, celebrated the feast of its patroness, Our Lady of Pilar, on October 12.
The feast-day Eucharistic celebration at the Mother House, the Monastery of Our Lady of Pilar, was presided over by the Society’s Vicar General, Fr Steevan D’Souza, on the theme, “Our Lady of Pilar: Strengthening Missionary Zeal with Perseverance”. In his homily, he called on members to remain steadfast in missionary service, drawing inspiration from Mary’s faith and commitment to God’s plan.
The nine-day novena, vespers and feast celebrations brought together Society members, seminarians, students, the Pilar Sisters, collaborators and well-wishers. On the eve of the feast, a procession was held from Fr Agnel Minor Seminary, Batim, to the Mission Seminary chapel, followed by vespers presided over by Fr Lucio Dias, Episcopal Vicar of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman. Heads and staff of the Society’s institutions, Hindu families and community members expressed their devotion to Our Lady of Pilar along the route.
During the feast-day Mass, the Society’s Superior General, Fr Nazareth Fernandes, released the Konkani Bible Diary 2027. He also blessed a new sitting pavilion outside the monastery, which was inaugurated by Fr Jose Baptista, Rector of the Pilar Monastery.
Fr Anthony Joseph Fernandes, Central Delegate Superior of the Pilar Complex, thanked members and collaborators for their support and participation in the celebrations.
The Pre-Novitiate formation community also organised the Our Lady of Pilar Volleyball Tournament in the evening.
