Goa: In a vibrant celebration of faith and dedication, the Diocesan Office for the Promotion of Vocations (DOPV) marked the Jubilee of Vocations under the theme “Vochat, Bhorvanso Pettoyat” (Go, Ignite Hope). The event sought to inspire catechism students, parishioners, and the wider community to reflect on God’s call and embrace lives of service, hope, and commitment.
The Jubilee was held simultaneously across eight parishes in North Goa, including Immaculate Conception Church, Panaji; Holy Cross Church, Santa Cruz; Our Lady of Penha de Franca Church, Penha de Franca; St. Alex Church, Calangute; Mother of God Church, Pomburpa; Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Valpoi; Our Lady of Rosary Church, Mandrem; and St. Joseph’s Church, Pernem. Each parish hosted a dedicated team comprising DOPV Executive members, vocation promoters from religious congregations, and diocesan priests, who guided the faithful through a day of prayer, learning, and reflection.
The sessions began with heartfelt prayers, devotional songs, and an introduction to the day’s theme. An engaging presentation outlined the various types of Catholic vocations, helping participants understand the many paths through which one can respond to God’s call. The personal vocation stories shared by priests and religious provided real-life examples of faith in action, inspiring attendees to consider their own spiritual journeys.
The day’s highlight was the screening of two creative productions: a skit titled “Bhorvanxeachi Divtti” and the theme song “Vochat, Bhorvanso Pettoyat”. Both were crafted by Rev. Fr. Tomas Lobo, Chairperson of the DOPV and Episcopal Vicar for the North Zone. The musical arrangement was created by Rev. Fr. John Albano Fernandes, and performances by Tanish Ovila Gama and Leroy Gonzag Sequeira brought the theme to life. Videography and editing were managed by Johnny Pereira of Exodus Studio, ensuring a polished presentation for all attendees.
Participants were encouraged to engage in personal reflection, writing down their intentions and thoughts about their vocations on slips provided during the event. Each participant received a bookmark featuring the Prayer for Vocations, serving as a spiritual memento and a reminder of the day’s significance.
The celebration concluded with a solemn Eucharistic Mass, reflecting the deep spiritual core of the event. Parish Catechetical Associations expressed gratitude to the DOPV and all who contributed, praising the Jubilee of Vocations as a profoundly meaningful and spiritually enriching experience that rekindled hope, faith, and commitment among the faithful.
The Jubilee of Vocations in Goa thus not only highlighted the diversity of religious callings but also fostered a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration, inviting all to carry forward the light of hope in their communities.