India: Archdiocese of Goa and Daman Marks 175th Parish with Stella Maris Chapel Elevation

The Stella Maris Chapel in Miramar was elevated to the status of a parish church on April 15, 2026, marking the creation of the 175th parish in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, southwest India.

The solemn ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, the archbishop of Goa and Daman and President of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences, with the participation of clergy, dignitaries, and parishioners. The liturgical celebration included special prayers and rites formally recognizing the chapel’s new status.

This milestone highlights the steady growth of the local Church and holds deep significance for the Catholic community in Miramar and across Goa.

Situated in Miramar, a coastal locality of Panaji, the chapel has functioned under St. Inez Parish since 1989. The process for its elevation began more than 15 years ago and is the fruit of sustained efforts by the faithful and successive chaplains.

The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman will now have 175 parishes with this addition.

The Stella Maris community comprises about 327 families and is located near the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. Known for its Marian devotion, the community entrusts itself to Mary under the title “Star of the Sea.”

Fr. Zeferino D’Souza, chaplain of Stella Maris, described it as a moment of grace and gratitude for the entire community.

The elevation of Stella Maris Chapel marks not only an institutional development but also a spiritual milestone, as the faithful of Miramar prepare to begin a new chapter in their parish life.