St. Sebastian Church

DEV BOREM KORUM!

Another year of my pastoral work comes to an end and only one year in a new place. I will cherish only good memories of this year and of this new budding Parish. A new Parish but veteran parishioners, indeed! When we have good, active and concerned Catholics in a parish, the work and the worries of the Parish Priest are all met and satisfied. Even though I was not given as Assistant I am simply amazed the way things worked out so successfully. That’s all because the members of the Parish are very supportive fervent Catholics who take it as their own responsibility to keep the Parish going and growing.

In every age, the Heart of Jesus is the clearest revelation of the Father’s love. The Sacred Heart is not merely a symbol of devotion or sentiment; it is the living sign of God’s mercy poured out for humanity.

Jesus came into the world to reveal the Father. He Himself said, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father” (Jn 14:9). The Heart of Jesus, therefore, is the human expression of the eternal love of God. Every act of compassion shown by Christ- forgiving sinners, touching lepers, feeding the hungry, consoling the sorrowful reveals the tenderness of the Father.

ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA stands among the most beloved Saints in the Christian Tradition, not merely because he is invoked as a Finder of Lost Things, but because his life radiated holiness, wisdom and tender compassion for the poor. He was a man whose preaching stirred hearts, whose learning illuminated minds and whose humility gave Glory to God, rather than to himself. Though centuries have passed since his earthly life, the memory of St. Anthony continues to shine like a lamp reminding the faithful that true greatness is found in service, purity of heart and complete surrender to CHRIST.

The solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Jesus Christ traditionally known as Corpus Christi is one of the most profound celebrations in the Catholic faith. It is a solemn reminder that Jesus did not leave His people alone after His earthly life, death, resurrection, and ascension. Instead, He chose to remain with us in the Holy Eucharist, offering His Body and Blood as spiritual nourishment for the journey of life.

At the Last Supper, on the night before He suffered, Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist. The Gospel narrates how He took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to His disciples saying:

“Take and eat; this is my body.”

Then He took a cup and said,

“Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant.” (Mt: 26:26-28)

The President, Rev. Fr. Simpliciano Nazareth Fernandes, addressed the members and encouraged everyone to pray regularly, especially during the month of May, which is dedicated to the Rosary. He said that whenever possible, families should gather for Rosary near a cross, chapel, or in their homes, as it is a very good spiritual practice.

He reminded the members that Our Lady appeared to the three children of Fátima — Jacinta Marto, Francisco Marto, and Lúcia dos Santos – in 1917 while they were praying. He also spoke about the need for peace in the world and referred to the wars and conflicts taking place in many countries today. He said that if people truly desire peace, they must pray sincerely and practise penance. He expressed concern that many youth today are more attracted to materialistic things and often neglect prayer and sacrifice, which can lead them away from good values and spiritual growth.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be my witnesses. -Acts 1:8

On the 12th of May 2026, 43 candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation, a truly special and memorable day for every candidate. On this blessed occasion, the candidates received the gifts of the Holy Spirit and were strengthened in their faith journey to be witnesses to the Lord.

The preparation for this sacrament did not begin only on the day itself, but from the very moment the candidates were informed that they would be receiving Confirmation. The students faithfully completed their proximate preparation, attended the retreat, and both parents and candidates participated in the Sacrament of Confession in preparation for this grace-filled day.

Feast Day 13th June

Saint Anthony of Padua is remembered across the world as the “Saint of Miracles,” but behind every miracle was a life filled with obedience, faith, humility, and discipline. His life teaches us that true greatness does not come from power or wealth, but from complete trust in God and loving service to others.

St. Anthony lived a life of deep obedience. He faithfully followed God’s call, dedicating himself to prayer, preaching, and helping the poor. Even when he faced rejection, hardships, and danger, he never gave up. His obedience gave him strength to continue his mission with courage and peace.

On the morning of third May, we were blessed to begin our visit to the Saint Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre at old Goa. The 45 minutes bus ride there did not feel very long because when you are with your friends, time flies by. Within no time, we found ourselves at the gate of a large property positioned at the top of a hill. We were met with a refreshing silence, which is much different to the bustling streets of Margao. We were soon welcomed and led to a hall where a brief description of the place was given to us. We were told amazing facts and some stories about Saint Francis Xavier. We were also told about the meaningful prayer sessions that took place at a room in the centre and were later taken to visit and even given the opportunity of praying there. We were then given breakfast and sometime to freshen up after the journey. Not long after this, we were seated back at the hall and our first session began.