Parish

August 15^th is a convergence of liberation – a day when the terrestrial and the transcendent map the exact same human longing: to be truly free.

In India, August 15^th marks the historic dawn of independence, the moment a nation broke the heavy shackles of colonial rule. The air fills with the vibrant tricolor of the Tiranga, a visual anthem of hard-fought liberty, sovereignty, and the relentless pursuit of self-determination. Millions celebrate the breaking of chains, honoring a collective resurrection of identity.

Simultaneously, Catholics worldwide look to the heavens to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption. This holy day marks the moment Mary, the Mother of Jesus, was taken body and soul into heavenly glory. It is the ultimate spiritual emancipation – a declaration that humanity is no longer captive to the gravity of sin or the finality of death.

The Parishioners of St. Sebastian Church, Aquem, extend a heartfelt welcome to Rev. Fr. Ubaldo Fernandes as he takes charge as the new Parish Priest of our parish community.

We are happy to welcome you to St. Sebastian Church, Aquem, and assure you of our prayers, cooperation, and wholehearted support in your pastoral ministry among us. May God bless you abundantly with wisdom, strength, and grace as you lead and guide our parish family in faith and service.

At the same time, we express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to Rev. Fr. Simpliciano N. Fernandes for his dedicated service and loving care towards our parish during the past one year. We thank him for his spiritual guidance, commitment, and valuable contribution to the life of our parish community. We pray that the Lord continues to bless him abundantly in his future mission.

As we welcome one shepherd and bid farewell to another, we thank God for the gift of their priestly ministry and entrust both Fathers to the loving protection and guidance of our Patron, St. Sebastian.

Parishioners of St. Sebastian Church

Bhagevont Sebastiany: amcheam Purvonzancho Bhavart

Saxttint bhavart porgott’tale ani vosoitale te missionar amkam vhodd bhavartacho nomunno diit raule ani to mhunnlear Bhagevont Sebastiao!

Okondd piraer taka Jezu bhettlo ani taka porgottunk to kosoch soddina na zalo; vhodd manachi nokri, poixe, duddu vo dobazo Jezu mukhar taka kanttallo zalo. Tachea tumlar catacombatant altar asa tacher mhaka Mis korunk bhag mell’lem tedna tachea bhavartache bizlecho xok koso mhojea angant xirxiro futtlo. Adle poile Povitr Sobhent zaite Kristany tornatti bhavarta khatir morun rogtsakxeacho mukutt zoddunk anvddeun anvddetale ani zaiteamni aplea jivachem bolidan kelem.

SAIBINN MAINK MANTELIM NIZ FULAM
Setembrachea mhoineant amchea Goyant sogleam Igorzanchea ani capelanchea adrar fulam gheun bhurgim disunk etat. Hi amche Goynchem purvonzanchem daiz.

Tem mhunnlear Saibinn Mainchi urbevont bhokti. Saibinn Mainche zolmache porbek toyari korunk nnov dis tichea manak gaionnam gaun tika bhurgim toxinch vhaddlelim (sogllim Saibinn Mainchim bhurgim!) Saibinn Maink fulam bhettoitat.

Do you know who the Vincentians are? The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) is a global Catholic lay movement, inspired by the zeal of St Vincent de Paul and founded by Bl. Frédéric Ozanam in 1833. Its members—called Vincentians—organise themselves in small parish-based groups known as Conferences. Their mission is simple and practical: to see Christ in the poor and to serve them with person-to-person love. Even the logo reflects this simplicity: the fish (an early Christian symbol) reminds Vincentians that their service is rooted in Christ and the Gospel. The circle symbolises universal charity, while the plain design mirrors the quiet, humble, and discreet way the Society works—without publicity or show. Our Goa’s parishes have long nurtured an SSVP presence that blends Catholic social teaching with practical help. From visiting the homebound in village wards to supporting struggling families in remote belts and urban pockets, Vincentians focus on steady accompaniment rather than one-time activities. Some of the activities that are regularly conducted includeHome visits: Listening, encouraging, and offering practical help.

Feast Day: September 23
“Pray, hope, and don’t worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer.” – St. Pio

Early Life:
Saint Pio was born on May 25, 1887 in Pietrelcina, southern Italy. Born into a poor Italian farm family, from a young age Francesco Forgione ( St. Pio) desired to be a friar. When he was sixteen, he entered the novitiate of the Capuchin Order, and took the name Brother Pius (Fra Pio). He was ordained to the priesthood in 1910.

PORMOLL, FRAGRANCE OF LOVE AND FAITH

For so many years the team of PORMOLL carried out a great service of Love and Faith for the community of this former chaplaincy and now a vibrant Parish. Since faith and morals are the responsibility of the Pastor, the Parish Priests in various Parishes of Goa run the Parish bulletins with the help of some volunteers. Here
you have done a great favour by starting this Parish bulletin and managing it so well for so many years. As Parish Priest I humbly assume my responsibility banking on your continued support and remaining ever grateful to you on behalf of the Parish.

The PORMOLL team has not only successfully run it but has also laid a firm foundation to it and has kept a comfortable fund for its expenses. May God bless you abundantly and let us continue to work together in the Lord’s vineyard!

Every single person we meet is loved by God and is someone Jesus died for. The devotion of most Sacred Heart of Jesus signifies that the heart of Jesus represents God’s unconditional love for humanity. It tells us about the relationship between our God and His people and that we never have to run away from fears and worries but can confidently place our lives in His care. The flaming red heart of Jesus is burning with divine love pierced for our salvation and always remains open inviting us to return. The month of June is dedicated to the most Sacred Heart of Jesus, and on 27th of June the Church celebrates the solemnity of Sacred heart. The feast day is a celebration of God’s never-ending love for us. Our God is a God of love and mercy. Yet the name of Jesus is abused by so many. In today’s world of pain and conflicts He is so often wounded by our words and actions. He keeps reminding us to cultivate peace among ourselves and then extend it to others.

The Catechist overnight mission experience at Birondem was a much-needed opportunity that reminded me of my purpose as a catechist. From the moment I arrived, there was a sense of excitement in the air. The hospitality of the locals and the scenic beauty of the riverside location added peace and charm to our time together. The experience definitely brought everyone closer through laughter and joy and it made me understand the bond that we share. Visiting the families was a humbling and touching moment that strengthened my sense of mission and service.