India: Institute Mater Dei Opens Academic Year in Goa with Call to Mission-Oriented Formation

The Institute Mater Dei in Goa, a coastal state in western India, inaugurated its new academic year on June 9 with a Eucharistic celebration and an opening program focused on mission, formation, and safeguarding.

The institute offers a Diploma in Theology and a Diploma in Formators' Course for women religious.

Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão of Goa and Daman presided over the Eucharistic celebration and formally inaugurated the academic year. Several priests concelebrated the Mass, including Fr. Rosario Oliveira, parish priest of the Se Cathedral in Old Goa; Fr. Jovito D’Souza SJ, rector of the Basilica of Bom Jesus; and Fr. Norman Almeida, rector of the All India Mission Seminary in Pilar, Goa.

Preaching on the theme, “Rooted in Christ’s Humanity, Forming Hearts for Mission,” Cardinal Ferrão said a genuine encounter with Jesus transforms believers and enables them to become effective witnesses of the Gospel.

Reflecting on the biblical account of the widow of Zarephath, he emphasized that trust in God and generous self-giving open the way for God’s providence and grace. He encouraged the women religious beginning their studies to deepen their relationship with Christ and embrace lives of compassionate service.

Addressing the students, Cardinal Ferrão urged them to make formation a journey of personal transformation and to become authentic synodal disciples committed to the Church’s mission.

The keynote address was delivered by Sr. Maria Nirmalini AC, President of the Conference of Religious Women India (CRWI) and Superior General of the Apostolic Carmel congregation.

Sr. Nirmalini called on the women religious to help build a Church rooted in transparency, responsibility, and hope. She highlighted safeguarding as an essential expression of Christian discipleship and encouraged participants to reflect on their identity, mission, accountability, and openness to lifelong learning.

She also stressed the importance of fostering communities where human dignity is protected, justice is upheld, and God’s presence is made visible through daily witness.

Earlier, Sr. Supreetha AC, Superior of the Institute Mater Dei, welcomed the gathering. A message from Sr. Aruna Jose CHF, President of the Institute Mater Dei, was read by Sr. Molly Mathew, Executive Director of CRWI.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Sr. Marina Mundaden SABS, Director of the Formators’ Course, followed by the Institute Anthem.