At a peaceful South Goa beach, overlooking a golden horizon, the sun was about to set, casting warm hues across the sky. Sound of waves beating on the shore were indicating signs of impending high tide. There was a distant sound of barking dogs that broke the silence and a gentle breeze filled the air. The sky was painted with shades of orange, pink, and purple. Few coconuts trees lining along the beach were casting long shadows below and few meters away from me were children busy making sand castles and playing with the ripples of incoming waves.
There I was, sitting on a placid blanket, gazing at the horizon and watching God’s awesome and magnificent creation of a sunset.
Very soon another year will end, and as I sit here reflecting on everything that has passed, I feel my heart swell with emotions. Some memories bring a quiet ache, others a soft smile. But in every moment, I find something to be grateful for—a small thread of light, a lesson, a hand to hold. This year hasn’t been easy, but it has been profoundly meaningful. And for that, I am deeply thankful.
Reflecting on Growth Through Difficult Moment.
This year, I faced moments I thought I couldn’t handle. Times when everything felt heavy, and the path ahead was blurry. In those moments, I learned what it meant to truly lean on others and on myself. I’m grateful for the strength that rose within me and from my family who never gave up on me, who lifted me up even when I felt like giving up on myself. It wasn’t easy, but it was a kind of painful beauty—knowing I could keep going, keep growing.
Honoring the People Who Brought Light to Dark Days.
When I think of the people who held me together this year, my heart aches with gratitude. My friends who showed up with open arms and open hearts, my family who became my anchor, my spiritual teachers who saw something in me even when I doubted myself. I am so incredibly grateful for each of them, for the ways they reminded me that I didn’t have to face anything alone. Their love was, and always will be, my safe place.
Finding Beauty in the Quiet, Ordinary Moments
I find myself grateful for the small things, too—the unexpected warmth of a stranger’s smile, the sound of laughter filling a room, the feeling of a gentle breeze on my face. These tiny moments were reminders that joy could be found even in the most ordinary of days. Each one was like a soft whisper telling me that life, in all its simplicity, is still so beautiful.
Bright Spot amongst All Storms of this year – 25th Silver Jubilee Edition of “Pormoll”
Life is a journey marked by peaks and valleys, sunshine and storms. Storms, in their many forms—challenges, heartbreaks, or uncertainties—test our resilience and patience. Among all this challenges I found that the 25th anniversary of our church Pormoll magazine marks a momentous milestone—a celebration of faith, creativity, and community. Over the past two and a half decades, Pormoll has evolved into more than just a publication; it has become a cherished voice for our congregation, an archive of our collective journey, and a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.
Launched 25 years ago, Pormoll began as a modest initiative to connect members of our church community and to share messages of faith, guidance, and reflection. From its first issue, it was evident that this magazine was destined for greatness. Every edition was filled with heartfelt articles, biblical reflections, inspiring testimonies, and creative contributions from our members—each piece a testament to the strong bonds within our community.
It is with immense pride and joy that I extend my warmest congratulations to the Pormoll team for their incredible achievement! Undoubtedly, their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment have taken this magazine to this milestone, and it is truly inspiring to witness.
Conclusion
As we close this year and prepare to step into a new one, let us take a moment to reflect on God’s faithfulness. Through every season—times of joy, challenges, growth, and change—His love has been constant.
Let us thank God for the blessings of this year: for the moments of fellowship, the opportunities to serve, and the ways we have grown together in faith. We also honor the lessons learned and the strength He has given us to overcome trials. As we welcome the new year, may we carry forward hearts full of gratitude, hope, and a renewed commitment to walk in His ways. Let us continue to uplift and support one another as a family in Christ, trusting in His plans for us.
Wishing all the Parishioners and their families of St. Sebastian Church Aquem abundant blessings for this Christmas and a New Year filled with His peace and joy.
Agnelo A. S. Fernandes