Goa: The Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier, popularly known as the Society of Pilar, celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Pilar, their Patroness, with solemnity and missionary fervour at the Pilar Monastery in Goa on 12 October. The occasion brought together members of the Society, including clergy and scholastics, for a day of prayer, reflection, and community renewal.
The Eucharistic celebration, presided over by veteran missionary Fr. Peter Soares, SFX, from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, centered on the theme “Our Lady of Pilar: A Pillar of Strength, Hope to the Missionaries.” In his homily, Fr. Soares recounted the encounter of St. James the Apostle with the Blessed Virgin Mary, who appeared upon a pillar, strengthening his mission. He highlighted how Spanish missionaries named the Pilar hillock in Goa in her honour, establishing it as a key centre for mission work.
“Mother Mary’s hand guided my entry into the Pilar Society, forming us into the image of her Son,” Fr. Soares reflected, describing the Society’s formation as a transformative journey “formed, reformed, transformed, and transfigured into Christ.” He emphasized the Rosary as a vital tool connecting members to the guidance and intercession of Our Lady of Pilar.
Paying tribute to past missionaries, Fr. Soares hailed them as “pillars of faith and compassion” and encouraged the current generation to continue their legacy as “stone-throw missionaries,” actively fostering faith, social service, and interfaith friendships across communities.
The celebration also featured the release of the Konkani Bible Diary 2026 by Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, SFX, Superior General of the Society, marking a symbol of gratitude and spiritual enrichment for the faithful. The feast underscored the enduring role of Our Lady of Pilar as a source of strength and inspiration, guiding missionaries and devotees alike in their journey of faith and service.
The event concluded with prayers, reflections, and communal fellowship, reaffirming the Society of Pilar’s commitment to missionary zeal, spiritual formation, and the spreading of Christ’s message in Goa and beyond.