March 2025 marks two significant milestones for the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth in Sancoale, Goa, western India.
On March 25, the congregation celebrated 73 years of its canonical erection, and on March 26, it commemorated the 50th death anniversary of its visionary founder, Fr. Faustino de Souza.
Fr. Faustino played a crucial role in shaping Goa’s religious and social landscape.
His mission to establish the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth was rooted in a deep commitment to faith, education, and social welfare.
Recognizing the need for an indigenous religious order for women, he founded the congregation during a period of historical upheaval, ensuring that local vocations could directly serve the community.
The congregation’s journey began amidst challenges, particularly the suppression of religious institutes in Goa following the 1833 decree by King Dom Pedro of Portugal.
For nearly a century, religious life in the region suffered setbacks, impacting essential services like education and healthcare.
Fr. Faustino’s vision was to restore these lost opportunities by forming a congregation that could serve the people of Goa.
His dream took shape with the support of Archbishop Patriarch Dom Theotonio Vieira de Castro and the Bethany Sisters of Mangalore, who assisted in the formation of the first aspirants.
After undergoing rigorous training, these pioneering women returned to Goa, officially founding the congregation on June 16, 1935.
The congregation gained canonical recognition on March 25, 1952, under Patriarch Dom Jose de Costa Nunes, further cementing its role within the Church.
Today, the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth uphold their founder’s legacy through diverse ministries, focusing on education, pastoral care, social work, and empowerment initiatives.
Programs such as Asha Sadan, Kiran Niketan, Divya Gyan, and Nazareth Jeevandhara reflect their commitment to uplifting marginalized communities through education, skill development, and social outreach.
Fr. Faustino’s teachings, encapsulated in his "Pearls of Wisdom," continue to inspire the sisters in their mission of love, service, and faith.
As they commemorate these milestones, the congregation remains steadfast in its dedication to spreading the Good News and serving humanity with compassion.
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