India: Four SFN Sisters Mark Silver Jubilee with Renewal of Vows in Goa

Four members of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth renewed their religious commitment on April 25, marking 25 years of consecrated life during a Eucharistic celebration at Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Navelim, south Goa, on the west coast of India.

Sisters Angela, Luiza, Gracy, and Gilda marked their silver jubilee under the theme, “A Life of Love, A Song of Hope.”

The Mass was presided over by Fr. Romeo Monteiro, chancellor of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, and concelebrated by 22 priests. The liturgy was supported by the choir of Perpetual Succour Convent High School, Navelim.

Prior to the Mass, Sr. Aroline presented brief profiles of the four sisters, outlining their formation and ministry over the past 25 years.

In his homily, parish priest Fr. Gabriel Coutinho reflected on the missionary dimension of religious life, drawing from the Gospel of St. Mark. He highlighted the call to proclaim the Gospel and linked it to the sisters’ work in education, pastoral ministry, and community service across different parts of India.

He also referred to John 15: 16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit, fruit that will last,” noting that religious vocation is rooted in God’s initiative and is sustained through service. He encouraged the sisters to continue their mission with consistency and responsibility.

During the liturgy, the four sisters renewed their evangelical vows, reaffirming their commitment to religious life.

The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sr. Gilda, who acknowledged the presence of clergy, religious, and lay participants. Superior General Sr. Berna Rodrigues presented floral tributes to the jubilarians.

A brief fellowship followed, allowing family members, parishioners, and members of the congregation to interact with the sisters and mark the occasion.