“Called, Consecrated, and Sent”: 142 Lay Faithful Graduate from Rachol Seminary Formation Course, Goa
The Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, under the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, southwest India, held Diploma Day on January 18, 2026, concluding its Theological and Pastoral Formation Course for the lay faithful, with a total of 142 participants receiving their diplomas.
The 14-session course, centered on the Catechism of the Catholic Church, was designed to train lay faithful in Scripture, Church teaching, and pastoral practice.
Eucharistic Celebration and Homily
The Diploma Day began with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrão of Goa and Daman. In his homily, under the theme: “Called, Consecrated, and Sent: Living the Universal Call to Holiness,” the Archbishop emphasized the universal call to holiness, reminding participants that God’s call is a sign of divine predilection, oriented toward service, and often received by those who are humble or weak.
“God does not choose the powerful, but calls the weak and strengthens them through grace,” Cardinal Ferrão said. “This call is first received in Baptism, where every Christian is anointed, consecrated, and sent to be light and witness of Christ in the world.”
Sharing Experiences and Personal Witness
Following the Mass, participants shared their experiences of the course. Simitra Rodrigues of Assolna and Mr. Jason Gonsalo de Araujo of St. Cruz reflected on how the program deepened their faith and inspired active participation in their communities.
Addressing the graduates, Cardinal Ferrão highlighted the importance of missionary discipleship, quoting the Risen Lord: “As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.” Drawing from the Gospels, he reflected on Zacchaeus, the Samaritan woman, and St. Paul, reminding participants that faith must be lived and shared.
“The gifts received in baptism cannot remain hidden or unused,” he said. “They must be put to use for the good of all, so that many may discover the joy of being disciples of Jesus.”
Participants Reflect on the Formation Journey
Speaking to Radio Veritas Asia, Sr. Saviola Fernandes, a member of the Ordo Virginum, described the course as a deeply fulfilling experience, helping her understand the Church’s teachings and inspiring her to live and share God’s love.
Capt. Eddie Viegas of Loliem called the program a “wake-up call” that rekindled his spiritual thirst and clarified the values of life through Scripture and Church teachings. Nashoma Faleiro, a catechist at Our Lady of Rosary Church, Navelim, said the course deepened her understanding of faith, worship, moral living, and prayer, which she now shares with her catechism students.
Celebration and Cultural Program
The Diploma Day concluded with the release of LUCEAS, the annual magazine of the Seminary, by Cardinal Ferrão. Fr. Donato Rodrigues, Rector of the Seminary, welcomed all participants, while Fr. Ashley Alphonso, Spiritual Director and Coordinator of the Formation Course, expressed gratitude to organizers and participants. Seminarians presented a choral piece, and Aziel Alvares anchored the program, rounding off a day of faith, learning, and celebration.
