A new book documenting the life and work of the late Fr. Bolmax Pereira, a priest known for integrating faith, science, education and environmental protection, was released at St. Anne’s Church in Ponda, Goa, western India.
Titled The Seeds He Sowed, the book was written by Dr. Kennedy D’Silva, a parishioner of St. Anne’s Church who worked with Fr. Pereira in more than 50 initiatives from 2011 onward.
Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão of Goa and Daman, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), released the book at the conclusion of a Eucharistic celebration marking the 800th anniversary of the Transitus, or death, of St. Francis of Assisi.
Fr. Pereira, a priest of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, died in May 2026 at the age of 50. He was known for his environmental advocacy and efforts to encourage communities to take responsibility for the natural world.
D’Silva said the decision to document the priest’s legacy grew out of preparations for the Franciscan anniversary and the Season of Creation at St. Anne’s Parish, which was recognized as the Season of Creation Parish for 2026 in the archdiocese.
“His name and his ecological vision kept coming back to us,” D’Silva said, explaining why he undertook the project.
The book traces how Fr. Pereira brought together his priestly ministry, scientific interests, educational work, youth engagement and advocacy for social justice and ecological protection.
According to D’Silva, the priest viewed these areas not as separate responsibilities but as interconnected expressions of his vocation. His concern for farmers reflected his respect for land and local identity, while his engagement with young people sought to promote social responsibility and justice.
Fr. Pereira worked with students, farmers, scientists, environmental activists, government officials and local communities. One notable initiative was a peace walk from Mollem to Vasco on October 2, 2020, which passed through 16 villages in Goa. D’Silva and Fr. Pereira organized the initiative to encourage public participation in environmental concerns.
D’Silva described Fr. Pereira’s ecological approach as people-centered and rooted in faith. He emphasized that forests, rivers, wetlands, agriculture and the communities dependent on them could not be considered separately.
Several initiatives at St. Anne’s Parish continue this work. The Our Common Home handbook and educational videos have reached more than 200 schools across Goa. A memorial ecology quiz promotes environmental learning among students, while coastal cleanups engage children, young people and parishioners.
The Franciscan Green Homes and Canopy initiatives also encourage families to plant and care for trees.
D’Silva said these projects reflect the practical dimension of Fr. Pereira’s legacy, particularly his conviction that environmental awareness must lead to action.
The book also highlights the priest’s belief that scientific knowledge and Christian faith could work together in service of society. His work demonstrated that pastoral ministry could address social and environmental challenges while encouraging ordinary people to contribute to the common good.
D’Silva hopes the book will inspire readers to take practical steps in their own communities rather than wait for large-scale change.
Fr. Pereira’s legacy, he said, continues through educational initiatives, environmental activities and efforts to defend the dignity of farmers and promote care for creation.
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