A soul-stirring Konkani song titled “Padr Agnel” was released on January 21, 2026, marking the 157th birth anniversary of Venerable Fr Agnelo de Souza, a saintly member of the Society of Pilar, from Goa in southwest India. Conceived as a heartfelt tribute to one of Goa’s most beloved spiritual figures, the song beautifully captures the prayerful life, pastoral zeal, humility, and compassionate love of Venerable Agnelo.
Written by Fr Peter Fernandes, SFX, the lyrics portray Ven. Agnelo as a man of deep prayer, constantly on his knees before Jesus, seeking divine grace and surrendering himself to God’s will. He is presented as a prince of love, a close friend of Jesus, deeply devoted to the Blessed Trinity, and a tireless guide who called people to walk the path of goodness.
The song also highlights Ven. Agnelo’s profound commitment to catechetical ministry, especially among children. Described as a pillar of faith, he won the hearts of the faithful by proclaiming the teachings of Jesus with simplicity, devotion, and authenticity. His life of humility made him a refuge for sinners and a shelter for the poor and the needy.
The music for “Padr Agnel” was composed by Fr Peter Cardozo, SFX, and produced by the Pilar Music Academy. The hymn is sung by Cielda Pereira, a well-known Konkani singer from Goa, along with Fr Peter Cardozo, SFX, whose voices add depth and devotion to the composition.
The technical aspects of the project—including recording, sequencing, mixing, mastering, and video production—were handled by Fr Myron Sequeira, SFX, and Mr Fevan Cruz. The soulful violin accompaniment was rendered by Claster Cardoso. The song was recorded at the Pilar Music Academy Studio in Margao, Goa, and released on the Academy’s YouTube channel.
More than a musical composition, “Padr Agnel” is a prayerful reflection on the virtues and sanctity of Venerable Agnelo de Souza, Goa’s beloved son and an enduring inspiration to generations. Through music and devotion, the hymn invites listeners to rediscover the life of a humble priest whose holiness continues to touch hearts and draw people closer to Christ.
Speaking to Radio Veritas Asia, lyricist Fr Peter Fernandes, SFX, said the inspiration behind the song stemmed from a deep desire to rekindle devotion to Venerable Agnelo and to carry forward his spiritual legacy.
“At a time when the cause for his canonisation is progressing, this song is an invitation to the people of Goa and beyond to rediscover the holiness, virtues, and pastoral zeal of this humble priest,” Fr Fernandes said. He added that the hymn seeks to draw renewed attention to the life of Venerable Agnelo, whose example continues to inspire generations.
Singer Cielda Pereira described “Padr Agnel” as a deeply spiritual experience rooted in her devotion to Venerable Agnelo de Souza. “I believe that God chose me to sing this song on Venerable Agnelo,” she said.
She acknowledged that meeting the musical expectations of composer Fr Peter Cardozo, SFX, was challenging and required patience. During this time, she sought the intercession of Venerable Agnelo. “I asked for his help, and through his intercession, I was able to sing the song the way Fr Cardozo envisioned it,” she shared.
A winner of Goencho Avaz 2014, a Konkani singing competition organised by the Herald Group, and a playback singer for Konkani films such as Nachom-ia Kumpasar, Nirmonn, and Soul Curry, Cielda noted the distinct nature of gospel music. “There is a big difference between singing gospel songs and other genres,” she observed, expressing gratitude to Fr Cardozo for the opportunity.
Composer Fr Peter Cardozo, SFX, a veteran music maestro and a devoted follower of Venerable Agnelo, expressed deep satisfaction with the final outcome. “I am happy that the song has come out well and has been beautifully sung by Cielda Pereira,” he said.
Fr Cardozo explained that his primary intention was to present the life and virtues of Venerable Agnelo with clarity, enabling listeners to reflect on his holiness and simplicity of life. For him, “Padr Agnel” is not merely a musical work, but a humble offering of faith aimed at preserving and promoting the spiritual legacy of Goa’s beloved Venerable.
A video version of the song is available at: https://youtu.be/tlBXpjf_JcU?si=9nJ-bwMa9YFNa9U0
