A weekend of faith: Celebrating the Jubilee of catechists in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman

The Diocesan Catechetical Center of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, western India, organized a Catechetical Day (Jubilee of Catechists) in celebration of the Sunday dedicated to the Catechetical Apostolate of the Archdiocese.

The event took place at St. Joseph’s Church in São José de Areal on February 1-2, 2025.

The biblical model inspired the weekend program, which highlighted the four key characteristics of the early Christian community. Emulating Jesus' practice of sending disciples in pairs, catechists from various parishes across the archdiocese were paired up and sent to participate in Small Christian Communities.

They stayed overnight with local families, engaging in prayer and fellowship.

Over 225 catechists took part in the immersive program.

The event began with a prayer led by Sr. Curcina Simoes FMCK, followed by the lighting of the traditional lamp by Fr. George Ratos, dean of Quepem Deanery, and Fr. Damaciano Carvalho, parish priest of St. Joseph's Church, São José de Areal, along with a catechist and religious representative.

In his address, Fr. Ratos expressed his admiration for the valuable service of the catechists, stating, "You are the gift to the Church."

Fr. Marcelino Rodrigues, director of the Diocesan Catechetical Centre, provided guidance to the catechists, emphasizing the significance of their involvement with Small Christian Communities and their overnight stay with the families.

The second day began with a praise and worship session led by the catechists, followed by the Mass, presided over by Fr. Henry Falcão, Episcopal Vicar for the Central Zone of the Archdiocese.

Delivering a homily on the theme "Go, radiate the light of Jesus—the hope through Catechism," Fr. Henry Falcão called on catechists to remain close to the church.

"We acknowledge the significant responsibility you carry in your parishes, but I urge you always to stay aligned with the Church," he said. "A catechist can never be against the Church or its teachings. A catechist must be open to the Church, its teachings, and its authority."

Fr. Falcão, who also serves as the director of the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, emphasized, "Let our lives radiate through the Word of God."  

Reflecting on the lives of Simeon and Anna at the time of Jesus’ presentation in the temple, Fr. Falcão related theirs to those of a catechist.

He highlighted three essential qualities needed for catechists. First, since the message is divine, catechists must be filled with the Holy Spirit. Second, they must study the Scriptures. And third, they must live righteous and holy lives.

"Every catechist bears the responsibility of being a prophet,” Fr. Henry said. “When we teach catechism to our students, we are fulfilling the role of a prophet."

He also noted that the Jubilee year is a time for personal renewal and appealed to the catechists to embrace this opportunity for spiritual growth in their lives.

Marina D’Silva of St. John Facundo Church, Corlim, shared her experience of participating in the Jubilee of Catechists, while Grelisa Azevado of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Chapel Curtorim expressed heartfelt gratitude for her 15+ years of service as a catechist.

In a special recognition ceremony, 110 lay catechists from Benaulim, Canacona, Chinchinnim, Quepem, Raia, and Sanguem deaneries were honored for their service.

These catechists, who have served for 15 or more years and continue to serve their parishes, were felicitated at the hands of Fr. Falcão and Fr. Damaciano Carvalho.

Speaking as a chief guest, Fr. Falcao said, “The Jubilee Year is the time to reflect on our lives.” Echoing the words of Pope Francis, the priest said, “We are catechists because of Christ.”

Fr. George Ratos handed out tokens of appreciation to those who contributed to the success of the weekend's program.