What began in the parish residence with just a handful of children from migrant and underprivileged families has grown into a respected centre of learning in Usgao, Goa. Born out of compassion and a desire to make education accessible to all, the school has remained faithful to its mission of inclusive, value-based formation. As it marked its Silver Jubilee on Feb 14, the institution celebrated 25 years of nurturing young lives irrespective of caste, creed, or economic background.
St. Joseph High School in Usgao, Goa, southwest India, concluded its Silver Jubilee Year with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman. The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by Fr. Benson Colaço, Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church, Usgao; Fr. Felix Lobo, founder of the school; along with other priests.
Delivering the homily on the theme “Ignite Hope; Be the Spark,” Cardinal Ferrão invited the faithful to become signs of hope through their witness to the Gospel. Drawing from the life of Jesus, he said that Christ revealed the Father not merely by words but through “a life of love, service, and compassion.”
Expressing gratitude for the school’s 25-year journey, he affirmed, “God has shown His goodness through His mercy, wisdom, and formation to this school for the past 25 years. He has protected us — students, teachers, and parents — and enabled us to carry forward this mission.”
Reflecting on the Cross, he reminded the congregation that Christ’s compassion culminated in forgiveness and urged all to become instruments of forgiveness in daily life. “When we care for others, serve others, and forgive others, we ignite hope,” he said. “Be the spark that lights the way for someone else.”
The Eucharistic celebration was followed by a cultural programme featuring prayer dances, a skit, and other performances by students. A souvenir was released at the hands of Cardinal Ferrão to mark the Jubilee Year. Former and present managers and heads of the school were felicitated.
Speaking to Radio Veritas Asia, Jessica Pereira, Headmistress of St. Joseph High School, Usgao, reaffirmed the institution’s mission as a Catholic centre of learning. She said the school remains committed to forming students rooted in values and responsibility, stressing that true education goes beyond technology and skills to shape character and build responsible citizens.
She expressed confidence that the school will continue to illuminate lives through knowledge, wisdom, and service.
Fr. Benson Colaço, Manager of the school, thanked God for the gift of the institution, the dedication of its educators, and the perseverance of its students. Calling the Jubilee a testimony to faith, hope, and perseverance, he reflected on the school’s journey marked by growth, struggles, and transformation, and acknowledged the guidance of committed leaders, mentors, and friends who have helped the school remain a beacon of light for generations.
Fr. Felix Lobo, former Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church and founder of St. Joseph High School, said the institution was born out of compassion.
“As Parish Priest, I saw many migrant children and children of other faiths not attending school because the government school was too far and their parents could not afford it,” he recalled. Remembering the late Fr. Jose Gomes’ words, “It is necessary to have a school when we have a church,” and inspired by his mother’s example, he decided to act.
The school began humbly in his parish residence, with Fr. Lobo assuring parents, “No charges.” Thirty students enrolled in the first year, supported by dedicated teachers — including those from other faiths — who accepted a modest salary of Rs 1,500, telling him, “Father, don’t worry.”
“My intention was to do good for all, irrespective of caste or religion,” he said, adding, “It is truly God’s blessing that the mission continues even today.”
Aldora Jeny Gomes of Class IX said she felt proud and grateful to be part of the Jubilee milestone, describing the school’s legacy as one built on hard work, dedication, and a love for learning. She expressed gratitude to the managers and Headmistress for their leadership in creating a nurturing environment and thanked her teachers and staff for their constant guidance and support.
Priscilla Fernandes, the first teacher of the school and among those felicitated, reflected on the 25-year journey, recalling the early days marked by students’ laughter, strong teamwork, and friendship among colleagues. She said the challenges they faced together strengthened them and shaped the school into what it is today.
Jessica Pereira presented the annual report of the school. Fr. Benson Colaço welcomed the gathering, while Guilhermina Monteiro anchored the event. Fr. Valfern Barbosa, Assistant to the Parish Priest and Manager of the Primary Section, proposed the vote of thanks.
St. Joseph High School, Takwada, Usgao, traces its origins to the year 2000, when Fr. Felix Lobo started a kindergarten with just twenty children, mostly from migrant and underprivileged families. Born out of a vision for social upliftment, the institution later grew into a high school with government approval and is now managed by the Diocesan Society of Education.
Guided by the belief that knowledge and wisdom shape humane persons, the school continues its mission of offering value-based education to all, especially those on the margins, remaining faithful to the spirit in which it was founded.
