PANAJI
Emphasising that service embraces everyone without discrimination, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman Bishop Simião Fernandes reminded the faithful that loving service is not occasional but constant.
He was delivering his homily at the ordination of Scholastic Rajat Singh SFX and Scholastic Mantheosha Fernandes SFX of the Society of Pilar as deacons during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Seminary Chapel of All India Mission Seminary, Pilar.
Bishop Fernandes presided over the Eucharistic celebration with Fr Norman Almeida sfx, Rector of the All India Mission Seminary Pilar, Fr Steevan D'Souza sfx, Fr Joaquim Rebelo sfx, Provincial Superior of Goa Province of the Society of Pilar and several other priests as concelebrants.
Preaching on the theme ‘Witnesses of Hope in Loving Service’, Bishop Fernandes invited the new deacons to embrace their calling wholeheartedly.
“To be witnesses of hope, we must give up everything for loving service,” he said, urging them to imitate Christ, who gave His life in service to others.
The bishop reminded the faithful that loving service is not occasional but constant.
“Loving service has no timetable. We cannot say that we render service only at this hour or on certain days. Service must be at all times,” he observed, while adding that such service must always be directed toward others, not oneself.
Bishop Fernandes also underlined the sacrificial nature of genuine service.
“In loving service, we need to sacrifice a lot. We need to say no to many things. Only then can we truly be effective witnesses of hope,” he said.
He further emphasised that authentic service embraces everyone without discrimination.
“The Good Samaritan did not see caste, race, or religion but a neighbour in need. Jesus washed the feet of all His Apostles, even those who would deny or betray Him. Loving service is all-embracing,” said the prelate.
Fr Valroy D’Melo SFX served as the liturgical commentator, while Fr John Bennet SFX animated the liturgy. Scholastic Markus Tudu of Dumka Diocese welcomed the gathering, and Fr Elvis Fernandes SFX led the singing. Fr Stevan D’Souza SFX, Vicar General of the Society of Pilar, addressed the assembly, and newly ordained Deacon Rajat Singh SFX expressed words of gratitude.
