Goa Lenten Concert Draws Faithful into Prayer Through Sacred Music

A Lenten concert held at Santa Monica Convent in Old Goa, southwest India, on March 22 offered a profound musical journey into the mystery of Christ’s Passion, inviting the faithful into deeper prayer and reflection.

The concert was earlier presented at Holy Cross Church in Cavelossim on March 19.

Titled “Bhokti-Gayonantlean Niyall” (Meditation through Sacred Music), the program was led by Fr. Romeo Monteiro, Director of the Western Music Department at Kala Academy.

At the beginning of the concert, Fr. Monteiro highlighted the enduring value of sacred music in the Church, describing it as a rich treasure that uplifts the faithful. Citing the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, he emphasized the need to make sacred music accessible for spiritual growth.

The program featured a rich selection of sacred music drawn from the Church’s liturgical and classical heritage. Pieces such as the Sanctus from Missa de Angelis, selections from Palestrina’s Missa Papae Marcelli, and the deeply moving Crucifixus by Johann Sebastian Bach created an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation. The performance also included the majestic Te Deum by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and a stirring rendition of the Peace Prayer attributed to Francis of Assisi.

A special highlight of the concert was the inclusion of Konkani sacred compositions, reflecting the region’s rich spiritual and musical heritage. These pieces helped bridge the universal traditions of the Church with the devotional expressions of Goa.

The concert brought together around 60 singers and instrumentalists, including soprano, alto, tenor, and bass voices, accompanied by a full orchestra featuring strings, flute, clarinet, and trumpet.

Among those present were Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Auxiliary Bishop Simião Fernandes, Bishop Emeritus Alex Dias of Port Blair, along with many members of the faithful. Speaking on the occasion, Cardinal Ferrão described the evening as far more than a musical performance, calling it a deeply prayerful and reflective experience. He said the Lenten music led the audience into contemplation and renewal, highlighting the power of sacred music to uplift the soul.

The archbishop also expressed appreciation to Fr. Monteiro, the singers, and the musicians for their dedication, noting that their performance became a true prayer.

Participants likewise shared their personal experiences. Rhea Dias said the concert helped her glorify God through music while becoming more aware of the meaning of the words she sang, leading her into deeper reflection and prayer.

Jesuslee Donato D’Souza described his journey from being an audience member to participating in Fr. Monteiro’s concert as enriching.

For Preethi Coutinho, singing Catholic sacred music is both a joy and a calling.

Herman Pereira shared that with every song, he felt closer to God.

Teresa Figueiredo noted that the solemn ambiance, along with the talented choir and musicians, elevated the concert. Grateful for the opportunity to play the cello, she described it as a privilege to perform under Fr. Monteiro.