Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão urged the faithful to follow St. Joseph Vaz’s example in fostering understanding and harmony across different faiths and cultures.
The prelate made the statement during the Eucharistic celebration marking the feast day of St. Joseph Vaz, held at the historic site of the old Church of Our Lady of Health in Sancoale.
“St. Joseph Vaz himself endured many challenges and hardships. With unwavering trust in God and deep faith, he confronted them courageously,” Cardinal Ferrão said, according to Catholic Connect, an online news service for Catholics in India.
He highlighted the saint’s legacy as a model of resilience and faith, calling on the faithful to emulate his dedication to spreading hope and love in society.
The celebration brought together 56 priests and a large number of faithful to honor St. Joseph Vaz, a Goan saint canonized by Pope Francis on Jan. 14, 2015.
In his homily, Bishop Simião stressed the importance of gratitude, humility, and love within families.
Drawing from St. Joseph Vaz’s Gospel-centered life and the teachings of Pope Francis, he underscored the power of simple yet transformative words like “Thank you,” “Sorry,” and “Please.”
The bishop also urged the community to care for the vulnerable, including migrants, the elderly, and youth, while addressing ecological concerns.
“With courage, participation, and trust in God, let us spread Christ’s hope and love in society,” he said.
The feast also commemorated the saint’s deep devotion to Mary, recalling his “Letter of Bondage to Mother Mary” written at the Sancoale church site on Aug. 5, 1677.
The historic location was adorned for the occasion, reflecting the significance of St. Joseph Vaz’s missionary work and unwavering faith.
Other Masses were celebrated by prominent clergy, including Fr. Onasis Dcruz, Fr. Tomas Lobo, and Fr. Polly Lobo, among others.
Deanery-wise Masses, services for the sick and elderly, and Masses in Hindi were also held during the days of Novena.
Liturgical arrangements were overseen by Fr. Afonso Mendonça, Director of the Diocesan Liturgical Centre, with Sr. Hilda Lopes serving as the liturgical commentator.
Clifford Pereira and his choir provided the music, enhancing the solemnity of the event.
Fr. Kenneth Teles, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Health Church and Rector of the St. Joseph Vaz Sanctuary, extended gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the celebration.
