St. Sebastian Church

Most of us open social media without thinking, but we don’t realize how much it quietly affects the way we see ourselves. What starts as a simple scroll often turns into comparing our life, our looks and even our achievements with people we don’t even know. I’ve noticed that even on days when I feel okay, a few minutes online can suddenly make me feel like I’m behind everyone else and this isn’t just my experience, there has been a study done by the university of Pennsylvaia, where they found that people who use social media for long periods feel more anxious and lonely, even if they don’t admit it.

held on December 2, 2025.

The PPC meeting began with a prayer led by SCC 14 and 15, followed by a welcome by the Moderator on behalf of the Parish Clergy and Executive Committee. Rev. Fr. Simpliciano Nazareth Fernandes emphasized the spiritual significance of Advent and encouraged members to keep Jesus at the centre of all celebrations. The Parish Priest highlighted the forthcoming implementation of the new liturgy from Ash Wednesday and introduced the diocesan booklet Misache Somorombnnechi Manddavoll for parish-wide instruction. He also reiterated that liturgical norms and Church teachings on faith and morals must be upheld.

Our nation will celebrate its 77th Republic Day on 26th January 2026. The Republic of India, marked by vast diversity and a rich cultural tapestry, stands as a beacon of democracy in the modern world. Within this unfolding national journey, Goa holds a unique and distinctive place.

Once a Portuguese colony, Goa was integrated into India in 1961 through political and military action. The years that followed witnessed defining political moments, including the Opinion Poll of 1967 on Goa’s identity, the language agitation, and the eventual grant of statehood in 1987. Goa is home to three major religious communities-Hindus, Christians, and Muslims yet its shared culture and language bind its people together as Goemkars, shaping a common Goan identity.

Our catechetical Association recently organized an enriching field trip for our students, which proved to be a memorable and spiritually uplifting experience for all. The trip consisted of two visits: Rachol Seminary and St. Anthony’s Home, Verna.

We began the day with a visit to Rachol Seminary, where we were warmly welcomed by the rector, Fr. Donato, who introduced us to the Seminary’s rich history and significance. Bro. Leo then guided us through a comprehensive tour of the Seminary, sharing insightful explanations about the various statues of saints and their stories. The serene garden area, with its fascinating underground pathway, was a particular highlight. The Brother’s patience and knowledge made the experience both informative and engaging.

St. John Melchior Bosco, lovingly known as Don Bosco, was a priest, educator, and tireless champion of young people. Born on 16 August 1815 in Becchi, Italy, he grew up in poverty and hardship after losing his father early in life. These experiences shaped his deep empathy for poor and abandoned youth and inspired a mission that continues to touch lives across the world-including here in Goa.

As a young priest in 19th-century Italy, Don Bosco encountered large numbers of boys who were homeless, unemployed, and vulnerable to exploitation. Instead of responding with punishment, he chose compassion. He believed that young people flourish when they are trusted, guided, and loved. This belief formed the foundation of his Preventive System of Education, based on Reason, Religion, and Loving-kindness.

19th December:
Aid for the Poor by SSVP at 11 a.m.
Serenading by Youth and Catechists at 6 p.m.

20th December:
Serenading continues

Dev Monis Zalo!

Agnosce Dignitatem tuam O Christiane! Oxem Pap Saib Leo 13vo Kristanvak ulo korun mhunntalo. Mhunnge; tujem vorteponn ollkun ghe, Kristanv mon’xa! Amcho Dev mon’xeponn gheta amkam devponnant vhorunk, bexttoch mon’xacho akar ghena punn khoro amche sarko lhan oskot ballok zata, sogllea amchea mon’xa konixttaiamni vantto gheta ani oxem amchi goth devponnak pavoita.

Hem ollkunk ani amcher tacho foll zaunk Natalank amchem dhyan mon Jezucher – Monis zal’lea Devachea Putacher asunk goroz. Keeping Christ at the Heart of Christmas! Sogleam Natalanchea vaurant ani jivitant Jezucher amchem kalliz dovorunk goroz.

Natalancho kall amkam soglleank khub umollxiken/ with expectation vatt pollovpacho kall: Jezuchea zolmachi khuxealkai, amchea kuttumbache purai zogant ximpoddlole vangddi ektthaim zavop, Jezuchea zolmachem sthan/ghotto ani noketram toyar korop, consvad ani dusreo khavpacheo vostu toyar korop adi. Jezuchea ghotteant sobit imaji ami dovortanv ani bore baxen to nettoitanv

Natalamchea ghotteacho itihas polleunk gelear Jezuchea zolmacho dekhavo poilech pavtt rochun haddpi Assisi-cho Sant Francisk. Povitr Zageank/Holy Land bhett kelea uprant 1223 vorsa Greccio nanvanchea xarant Jezuchea zolmacho dekhavo dakhounk taka preronn ailem. Punn Fraciskan ek jivó ghotto toyar kelo. Eke dholint/cave sukhem tonn manddun gorvam dovorlim ani ganvchea lokak Maria, Juze, ballok Jezu ani gorvam rakhnne koxim nesoun tea zagear Natalancho dekhavo prodorxit kelo.

The President, Rev Fr S. N. Fernandes in his address conveyed that this month is dedicated to pray for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. He explained, that suicidal thoughts should not be viewed merely as an individual failing or individual sin. He emphasized that many social influences contribute to a person reaching that situation. He said that society, social media and even the environment within one’s own family can play a role shaping a person’s mental and emotional well-being. The parish priest further explained that people from all walks of life may find themselves in such situations due to stress and other challenges and our Church is deeply concerned about this issue. He pointed that people facing such problems or stress should reach out and interact with their dear ones. So that others can help, pray for them or guide them to seek counselling. The contact numbers of special priest counsellors are displayed in the notice board and everyone was encouraged to seek their help without cost. He stated that priests are always ready to offer help and during the sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession the priests also provide proper guidance and direction. As parishioners, everyone was reminded, to care for one another through visits and regular inquiries about each other’s well-being

Christmas is one of the most joyful times of the year: we decorate our homes, exchange gifts, enjoy delicious food, and spend time with family and friends. But in the middle of all the celebration, it is important to pause and remember why we celebrate Christmas in the first place.

Christmasis about the birth ofJesus Christ, the Son of God, who came into the world to bring us hope, peace and salvation. When Jesus is at the center of Christmas, everything else findsitstruemeaning.The lightswe hang remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World. The gifts we give help us remember the greatest gift God gave us, His only Son. The joy we feel reflects the joy the shepherdsfeltwhen they heard the good news ofJesus’ birth.And the star on top ofourtree reminds us ofthe starthatguidedthewisementothenewbornKing.