St. Sebastian Church

Kall ieta, kall veta, kalla pormonnem vathavoronn bodolta.Thonnddeche mhoine aile ani ghele punn thonnddich poddunk nam.Vaur dondo korun atam konth ixeop korpacho mhoino.Artik poristhiti koxi asa, kitlo faido zala ani kitlo faido zaunk zavo hachi topasnnim korcho ho mhoino.

Punn amkam Jezuchea pattlavdarank,amchea Atmik jivitacher topasnnim korunk lagu zatolo ho mhoino ani kall zaun asa.Amcho Patron Sant Sebastiao hachi porob ami dobajean manoitanv zalear ami tache baxen Jezuk govaiki aitim ani kalljidar zaunk zai .

Festacho dobazo somplo zalear rokddoch Prachit kall suru zata.

Amchea jivitacho konth ixop diunk ami aitim zaunk ho prachit kall amkam amontronn korta.

Zalear ami kitem korchem? Amchea jivitachi novsornnim korunk ho kall amkam apoita mhonn hanv tumkam ughddas kortam.

Jivitachi novsornnim korneanim zaunk zai. Oronneant bob martolo tallo oxem mhonnta, “jivit bodlat Xubvortoman manun gheiat”.

Jivitachi novsornnim ani bodolnnim korunk ho kall amkam apoita zalear Devachea utrak kan diumya, jivit bodlumya.

Parish Priest, Fr. Agnelo Rodrigues

It gives us immense joy and happiness to present this Special Edition of our beloved Church Bulletin, PORMOLL, on the occasion of our Parish Feast of our Patron, St. Sebastian. We acknowledge with gratitude the efforts put in by everyone involved in sparing no efforts to see that this magazine sees the light of the day well in time. I take this opportunity to thank all the writers, who regularly contribute with their write-ups, spending a lot of their precious time and energy and strive to convey their viewpoints/advice to the readers. Medical notes, guidance and important information on our health issues and hygiene is a regular feature on our bulletin, provided by our Parish doctors to whom we are indeed indebted. Many of our parishioners have certainly benefited by reading their articles. Similarly a big THANK YOU to all our Sponsors, Advertisers and all the Parishioners for their generous contributions and support, not only this year but for the past several years. Your helping hand has played a big role in our recent achievement of crossing the milestone of completing 25 fruitful years of PORMOLL existence. It really means a lot to us and we shall be ever so grateful. Thanks and a big GOD BLESS!!

Lent is the 40-day period leading up to Easter, (excluding Sundays) that starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter. These 40 days of Lent involve fasting, prayer, and almsgiving as a way to connect deeper with God and fellow neighbour.

The origin of the word Lent comes from the “Old English lencten springtime, spring” and “from West Germanic langitinaz long-days or lengthening of the day.” The 40-day period of Lent is symbolic of significant biblical events, including:

The month of March is dedicated to St. Joseph. On 19th March we celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This date is believed to have been the date of St. Joseph’s death, but that is not certain. In 1955, Pope Pius XII declared an additional feast which is celebrated on 1st May, as the feast of St. Joseph the Worker. This date is also International Workers’ Day and believed to reflect Joseph as the Patron Saint of Workers. He is the Patron Saint of Workers because he taught Jesus the trade and craft of carpentry.

The Annunciation of our Lord is one of the most profound and pivotal events in our Christian faith. Celebrated annually on March 25th, this sacred occasion marks the moment when the Angel Gabriel appeared to the Blessed Virgin Mary, announcing that she had been chosen to bear the Son of God. This divine encounter, recorded in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 1:26-38), signifies the beginning of God’s redemptive plan for humanity and stands as a testament to Mary’s faith, obedience, and humility.

Carnival in Goa is one of the most vibrant and eagerly awaited festivals in the state, celebrated with grand parades, music, dance, and extravagant floats. Rooted in Portuguese heritage, the Goa Carnival takes place before the Christian season of Lent, typically in February or early March.

History.

The Goa Carnival, with its roots tracing back over 500 years to the Portuguese colonial era, was introduced as a pre-Lenten festival, drawing inspiration from the grand Carnivals of Brazil and other European Mardi Gras celebrations. Over time, it has flourished into a vibrant fusion of Portuguese, Goan, and Indian cultural influences, creating a spectacle unlike any other in India. Known for its lively masked parades, theatrical performances, and exuberant street festivities, the Carnival mirrors the grandeur of its European counterparts while retaining a distinctly Goan essence.

Beyond being a major tourist attraction, this event holds a special significance for the parishioners of Aquem, as it beautifully coincides with the anticipation of our cherished village feast in honor of our Patron Saint Sebastian. The seamless transition from the jubilant spiritually devotional Feast atmosphere to Carnival celebrations makes this time of year truly extraordinary, blending heritage, faith, and festivity in a way that unites our community in both celebration and tradition.

TRADITIONAL CELEBRATIONS

Khell Tiatr one of the attractive ingredients of the event, holds a significant place in the cultural landscape of Goa, particularly during the vibrant Carnival celebrations. Each village takes pride in presenting its own distinctive performance, showcasing the rich traditions and creativity of its community. Though this beloved tradition has seen a decline over the years, those who remember its golden days still cherish its magic. The joy of watching these performances, sitting on the ground under the open sky, remains an irreplaceable experience for those who grew up with it.

Unlike the grand parades and boisterous street parties, Khell Tiatr offers an intimate charm, bringing people together in cozy village squares. Without elaborate stages or dazzling lights, it thrives in its simplicity—its power lies in storytelling, music, and humor that resonate deeply with Goans of all generations. These plays reflect the everyday struggles, aspirations, and values of Goan life, keeping alive a treasured tradition that connects the past with the present.

In essence, Khell Tiatr is more than just entertainment—it is the heartbeat of Goa’s Carnival, reminding its people of their roots, their stories, and the warmth of their shared culture.

The other Highlights of Goa Carnival

• Grand Parades – The festival kicks off with lively parades in Panaji, Margao, Vasco, and Mapusa, featuring beautifully decorated floats, dancers in vibrant costumes, and street performances.
• King Momo’s Rule – A highlight of the carnival is the symbolic crowning of “King Momo,” who declares the festival open, encouraging people to “Eat, Drink, and Be Merry!”
• Music & Dance – The streets come alive with Goan folk dances, live music, DJ performances, and traditional Konkani songs.
• Food & Drink – Goan cuisine takes center stage with a variety of seafood, Bebinca, Dodol, (Goan desserts), Feni (time tested local spirit), and traditional delicacies being served across the state.

Street Parties & Nightlife – The carnival atmosphere continues late into the night with open-air parties, masquerade balls, and live performances. A Celebration of Spirit and Belonging

The Goa Carnival is more than just a festival—it is a celebration of life itself. It is a time when the past and present intertwine, when tradition dances hand in hand with modernity, and when people from all walks of life come together in joyous unity.

As the beats of the drums fade into the night and the echoes of laughter linger in the air, the essence of Carnival remains alive in the hearts of those who have lived it. The spirit of Goa—its warmth, its resilience, its undying love for celebration—shines through every parade, every melody, and every shared smile.

Though the grand floats may pass and the festivities may end, the memories endure, carried forward in the hearts of generations to come. The Goa Carnival is not just an event; it is a feeling, a legacy, and a reminder that life, like the festival itself, should be embraced with joy, color, and an open heart.

So, as King Momo proclaims, let us always find moments to “Eat, Drink, and Be Merry,” not just during Carnival but in every celebration of life!

Agnello A. S. Fernandes

The origin of Women´s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century when women were fighting for their rights and equality including the right to vote, work and receive an education.

The first women’s day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909. It was not recognized until the United Nations, in the year 1975 officially recognized March 8th as International Women’s Day. This year marks the Golden jubilee ,thus this year is all the more important for women all over the world.

The feast of St. Sebastian Church, Aquem, is celebrated on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday, every year. This year too the church celebrates the grand Feast of our Patron Saint Sebastian on Sunday, 2nd March ’25 in all grandeur.

Our Parish Annual Adoration was held on 16th February ’25, the Sunday before the novenas, to pray in unison as one community reflecting on the theme, ‘Pilgrims of Hope’. The novenas of our Patron Saint Sebastian, began in solemn religious fervour, with the blessing of the Banner (MADDI) on 20th February ’25 at 12 pm, solemnised by the Church Cofre, which incidentally always happens to be a Thursday. Every evening, saw a large gathering of the devout parishioners of Aquem, for the rosary at 5:30 pm followed by the novena mass. The nine days novena was patronised by celebrants, from far and wide, who broke the word to day the congregation, with the theme chosen for the day, most efficiently. The church choir added to the solemnity, every day.

“POSITIVE THOUGHTS GENERATE POSITIVE FEELINGS AND ATTRACT POSITIVE ENERGY ’’ is a beautiful quote, to which many of you will agree.

What is positive thinking?

Positive thinking simply means expecting best outcome even in a difficult situation.

Our mind is the most potent tool that can have a strong jolt on our body negatively or positively. Positive thoughts can boost your immune system whereas negative thinking can contribute to anxiety, depression and serious health problems. When we have good thoughts we can be more productive. Sometimes in moments of sadness or when we experience disappointment, we isolate ourselves and wander aimlessly through life with no clear direction. During these times, positive self- talk can help us in reducing stress and anxiety.