Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, has conveyed New Year greetings to the people, praying for peace in families, harmony in communities and unity in the State and the Nation, while also expressing deep concern over growing insecurity among minority communities in the country.
In his New Year 2026 message issued from the Archbishop’s House at Altinho, Panaji, Cardinal Ferrão said he was anguished by the unwarranted attacks on Christians during recent Christmas celebrations in several parts of India. He described these incidents as a painful testimony to an alarming trend that undermines the moral fabric of the nation, traditionally known for its peaceful coexistence and respect for diverse cultures, religions and traditions.
The Archbishop said such acts not only cause pain to Christian communities but also show blatant disregard for the sacred values India has always stood for. He termed it a matter of grave concern that despite the Constitution guaranteeing free and fair practice of religion, some communities are being persecuted for celebrating their most cherished festivals, sometimes with the tacit approval of authorities.
As the country steps into 2026, Cardinal Ferrão appealed to authorities at all levels to uphold their constitutional responsibility and moral accountability by acting decisively and impartially, ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice and confidence in democratic values is restored. He also urged the vast majority of citizens who believe in harmony, justice and mutual respect to unite against divisive forces and safeguard the unity of the nation.
Concluding his message, the Archbishop prayed for God’s blessings upon the country and its people.
