Goa: Catechetical Sunday was observed with deep prayer, reflection, and renewed pastoral enthusiasm in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman during celebrations held on January 31 and February 1 at Sts Cosme and Damian Church. Organized by the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, the two-day observance reached its spiritual high point with a solemn Eucharistic celebration on February 1, presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Simião Fernandes of Goa and Daman.
The Eucharist was concelebrated by Fr. Marcelino Rodrigues, Director of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre; Fr. Kenneth Teles, Episcopal Vicar for the South Zone; Fr. Teo Fernandes, Parish Priest; Fr. Lucas Rodrigues SFX, along with several other priests, reflecting the strong ecclesial support for catechetical ministry in the archdiocese.
Preaching on the theme, “Let Us Proclaim Hope Through Catechesis,” Bishop Fernandes urged catechists to be authentic messengers of hope in the lives of children and families. He emphasized that effective catechesis goes beyond textbooks and syllabi, beginning instead with an understanding of the family backgrounds, struggles, and everyday realities of students. Empathy, attentive listening, and accompaniment, he said, are essential to nurturing faith in young hearts.
Drawing from the liturgical readings, the Bishop reflected on God’s special closeness to the poor, the marginalized, and the vulnerable. He noted that genuine hope is most clearly revealed in lives shaped by the Beatitudes, and that those who strive to live by these values experience the true blessedness promised by God.
Encouraging catechists to live their vocation with love and perseverance, Bishop Fernandes presented the mission of a catechist through the acronym HOPE, offering a practical and pastoral framework rooted in synodal listening and Christian witness.
Elaborating on “H – Hear,” he called on catechists to listen attentively to children, including to their silences, which often speak of hidden fears, wounds, or struggles. Such deep listening, he said, reflects the synodal spirit of the Church and becomes a powerful source of hope. “When we listen to our children, we give them hope,” the Bishop affirmed.
Under “O – Offer,” he reminded catechists that their role is not merely to impart knowledge or conduct evaluations, but to offer Jesus Christ himself to the children entrusted to them. He recalled the guiding motto of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, “Let Jesus be formed in you,” as the heart of all catechetical efforts.
Explaining “P – Plant (Sow),” Bishop Fernandes described catechesis as a patient, long-term ministry of sowing seeds of faith. By helping children internalize the values of the Beatitudes, catechists contribute to a gradual and lasting transformation of lives. He concluded with “E – Example,” stressing that personal witness remains the most convincing form of catechesis, even as catechists humbly acknowledge their own human limitations.
At the conclusion of the celebration, Bishop Fernandes expressed his heartfelt gratitude to catechists for their generous and often unseen service, encouraging them to remain steadfast even in the face of criticism or discouragement. He also thanked the parish priest, parishioners, clergy, animators, the Dean, ACAZ members, and all those who worked together to ensure the meaningful and successful celebration of Catechetical Sunday in the archdiocese.